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Great London Buildings: Hazlitt’s Hotel in Soho

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Nestled in the heart of Soho, Hazlitt’s Hotel stands as a great example of the rich architectural and cultural heritage of 18th-century Georgian London. Comprised of three Georgian townhouses at 5, 6, and 7 Frith Street, the hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.

Origins and Development of Soho

To understand the architectural significance of Hazlitt’s, one must first consider the development of Soho itself. In the late 17th century, what is now Soho was primarily open fields and woodlands, used as a hunting ground. The area’s name is believed to have originated from a hunting call, “Soho and away,” which eventually stuck as the neighborhood’s moniker.

The land around Soho Square was granted to the Bentinck family, Earls of St Alban’s and later Dukes of Portland, in 1698. They developed the area by granting building leases to speculators and wealthy citizens seeking to construct substantial houses. This period marked the beginning of Soho’s transformation into one of London’s most fashionable suburbs.

Construction of Frith Street

The site where Hazlitt’s now stands has a fascinating history. Behind it once stood the grand Monmouth House, originally planned by James Scott, Duke of Monmouth (the illegitimate son of King Charles II). After Monmouth’s execution for rebelling against James II, the house was purchased by Sir James Bateman, Lord Mayor of London.

Sir James’s son, William (later the first Viscount Bateman), demolished the stables on the east side of Frith Street and replaced them with a group of new houses. These houses were constructed using materials from the old stables, a common practice in the 18th century that exemplified early sustainability efforts in architecture.

The renowned architect Thomas Archer, known for his Baroque style, assisted with the site plans for these new houses. This involvement of a prominent architect underscores the importance and prestige of the development at the time.

Hazlitt’s Buildings: 5, 6, and 7 Frith Street

Great London Buildings: Hazlitt’s Hotel in Soho

The three townhouses that now comprise Hazlitt’s were built in 1718. No. 5 was constructed by Joel Johnson, a bricklayer, while No. 6 and 7 were part of the larger group of houses built under William Bateman’s direction. These two buildings are now the only survivors of this original group, although plans for all five can still be found in the Northamptonshire Record Office.

The buildings exemplify the Georgian style of architecture, characterized by symmetry, proportion, and a focus on classical elements. The original Georgian paneling, dating back to the 18th century, has been discovered and restored throughout the hotel, providing an authentic glimpse into the architectural interiors of the period.

Notable Residents and Visitors

Great London Buildings: Hazlitt’s Hotel in Soho

Over the centuries, these buildings have been home to a diverse array of notable figures, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the hotel’s history. William Duncombe, an 18th-century writer, was the first occupant of No. 4 (now demolished) and held the lease of No. 5. The celebrated author Jonathan Swift was a frequent visitor to No. 5, which was home to his protégée, the poetess Mary Barker.

No. 6 housed several distinguished residents, including the Prussian Resident (a sort of honorary consul) from 1757 to 1764, and Henry, 13th Baron Willoughby of Farnham, from 1768 to 1775. Joseph Munden, a celebrated actor, also resided here, as did Lady Frances Hewitt, a women’s prison reformist.

The hotel’s namesake, William Hazlitt, lived and died at No. 6 Frith Street in 1830. Hazlitt, considered one of the greatest English essayists and critics, spent his final days in what was then a boarding house. This connection to literary history adds an additional layer of cultural significance to the building’s architectural importance.

Preservation and Adaptation

Great London Buildings: Hazlitt’s Hotel in Soho

In 1986, these three townhouses were transformed into Hazlitt’s Hotel. The conversion was carried out with a deep respect for the buildings’ historical and architectural integrity. The goal was to create a hotel that maintained the charm and character of the Georgian period while providing modern amenities.

The preservation efforts are evident throughout the hotel. Original features such as wooden floors, doors, and antique furniture have been retained, even if they show signs of age and settling. This commitment to authenticity means that guests may find slightly uneven floors or doors that don’t fit perfectly – all part of the building’s unique character.

The hotel’s decor and furnishings have been carefully selected to complement the Georgian architecture. Each room is individually decorated with period furniture, creating an immersive historical experience for guests.

Architectural Challenges and Modern Adaptations

Adapting 18th-century buildings for modern use presents unique challenges. The hotel has had to balance preservation with the expectations of 21st-century travelers. This includes incorporating modern heating systems, which can affect antique furniture, and finding creative solutions for plumbing and electrical systems without compromising the historical integrity of the buildings.

Despite these challenges, Hazlitt’s has successfully merged historical architecture with contemporary comfort. The hotel stands as a prime example of adaptive reuse in architecture, demonstrating how historical buildings can be preserved and given new life without losing their essential character.

Jonathan Thomas
Author: Jonathan Thomas

Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.

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