The Savoy Hotel, an emblem of luxury and sophistication in London, boasts a rich architectural history that spans over a century. This iconic establishment, situated on the north bank of the River Thames, has been a beacon of opulence and innovation since its inception in 1889.
The hotel’s story begins with the visionary Richard D’Oyly Carte, an impresario who made his fortune producing Gilbert and Sullivan operas. Carte dreamed of creating a luxury hotel that would rival the finest establishments in Europe and America. To realize this ambitious project, he enlisted the services of architect Thomas Edward Collcutt, known for his work on the Palace Theatre.
Collcutt designed the Savoy in the fashionable Renaissance Revival style, popular in late Victorian England. The exterior featured a striking combination of Portland stone and red brick, creating a visual spectacle that immediately set the hotel apart. The building’s façade was adorned with elaborate carvings and decorative elements, reflecting the grandeur that awaited guests inside.
One of the most innovative aspects of the Savoy’s original design was its use of electricity. It was one of the first buildings in London to be lit entirely by electric lights, a feature that earned it the nickname “The Electric Palace.” This forward-thinking approach extended to other amenities as well, with the hotel boasting electric lifts, hot and cold running water in every room, and an early form of air conditioning.
The interior of the Savoy was equally impressive. The grand entrance hall, with its marble columns and ornate plasterwork, set the tone for the luxurious spaces beyond. The famous Thames Foyer, originally an open courtyard, was later enclosed with a glass cupola, creating a breathtaking space that became the heart of the hotel.
As the Savoy’s popularity grew, so did the need for expansion. In 1903, a significant addition was made to the hotel with the construction of the Savoy Theatre, designed by Frank Verity. This new wing seamlessly integrated with the original building, maintaining the hotel’s cohesive aesthetic while providing additional amenities for guests.
The early 20th century saw further architectural enhancements under the guidance of Sir Howard Robertson. Robertson was responsible for redesigning the River Restaurant in 1937, creating an Art Deco masterpiece that offered stunning views of the Thames. His work blended harmoniously with the hotel’s existing style while introducing modern elements that kept the Savoy at the forefront of luxury hospitality.
World War II brought challenges to the Savoy, as it did to much of London. The hotel suffered damage from bombing raids, but its sturdy construction and the dedication of its staff ensured that it remained operational throughout the conflict. The post-war years saw a period of restoration and modernization, with careful attention paid to preserving the hotel’s historic character while updating its facilities.
A major renovation in the 1950s saw the addition of air conditioning throughout the hotel, a rarity in London at the time. This period also saw updates to guest rooms and public spaces, always with an eye towards maintaining the Savoy’s reputation for luxury and innovation.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought new challenges and opportunities for the Savoy. In 2007, the hotel closed its doors for the first time in its history for a comprehensive renovation. This £220 million project, led by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, aimed to restore the Savoy to its former glory while bringing it firmly into the 21st century.
The renovation, which took nearly three years to complete, touched every aspect of the hotel. Historic features were meticulously restored, including the famous black-and-white checkerboard floor in the entrance hall. Guest rooms were updated with the latest technology while retaining their classic elegance. The Thames Foyer was rejuvenated, and its glass cupola was cleaned and restored to allow natural light to flood the space once again.
One of the most significant changes was the reconfiguration of the River Restaurant. The space was transformed into the Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill, named after the hotel’s famous cat sculpture. This new design paid homage to the Art Deco heritage of the space while creating a more contemporary dining experience.
Throughout its history, the Savoy has been at the forefront of architectural innovation in the hospitality industry. From its early adoption of electricity to its pioneering use of en-suite bathrooms, the hotel has consistently set new standards for luxury and comfort.
Today, the Savoy stands as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful architecture and design. Its seamless blend of historic charm and modern luxury continues to captivate guests from around the world. The hotel’s façade, with its Portland stone and red brick, remains an iconic sight on the London skyline, while its interiors offer a journey through the best of late Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, and contemporary design.
As the Savoy moves into its second century, it continues to evolve, always with an eye toward preserving its rich architectural heritage while embracing the future. It remains, as it has always been, a palace of luxury on the Thames, a living monument to the art of hospitality and the enduring allure of timeless design.
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.