Of all the talked-about hotel debuts in the UK this year, Monkey Island is one to watch. As we previously reported, the storied estate is set to reopen in Bray-on-Thames in the spring. The project is one of the buzzworthy U.K. projects undertaken by Malaysia-based YTL Hotels. And in some more exciting news from the hospitality group, The Academy will relaunch in London in April after a top-to-bottom redesign by the acclaimed Champalimaud Design. Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, The Academy is a collection of five Georgian townhouses combined into one hotel. Upon its relaunch, The Academy will become part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
What’s in store with the multimillion-dollar makeover? The new look is said to be a “contemporary take on townhouse living,” combining traditional glamour with a modern city style. The designers took their inspiration from the neighborhood’s history and The Bloomsbury Set, the famous artists, philosophers and writers (including Virginia Woolf, John Maynard Keynes and E.M. Forster) who lived in the area in the early 20th century.
In addition to the 50 guestrooms, the public spaces have also been redesigned. The Alchemy Bar has been moved to the ground floor, adjacent to the garden. The Refectory will serve as the breakfast room and function space. Last but not least: Guests will be able to book a treatment at Mr. Ma’s Tea House Spa, named in homage to Lao She’s famous novel, Mr Ma and Son. Located in the garden, the spa will offer traditional Asian therapies and treatments.
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