Malmaison London

The Scene

Malmaison is literally just outside the boundaries of the City of London on a picturesque courtyard of cobblestones---so you really may as well be in the tiny city (at only 1 square mile, we’re sure you’ll agree). It’s a terrific way to see London in a different light: for one, the City and Clerkenwell area is up-and-coming with a strong shift away from dilapidated warehouses towards repurposed spaces and a thriving pub culture. It’s got just the right blend of quiet with a party if you know where to look (megaclub Fabric is 3 minutes away). Barbican and Farringfon Tube stops are under 5 minutes away to whisk you away to the other wonders of Central London, but we highly recommend leaving some time for Clerkenwell. You’re very close to the Barbican Centre, Europe’s largest cultural venue (and home of the London Symphony Orchestra) as well as the Museum of London and the ever-charming Smithfields market. This isn’t necessarily a place many tourists see, so take advantage!

The Concept

The Malmaison brand is known for being trendy yet unfailingly fashionable, and Malmaison London doesn’t disappoint. Shrugging off its former mantle of dark party pad, the new Mal is brighter than ever with plenty of natural light and vibrant colors and style reminiscent of the 1970s. Basement attraction STRIPBAR & STEAK entices with an industrial vibe and excellent steak (as promised) with a flair for the dramatic. Mal Lounge in the lobby, on the other hand, offers the standards of the Malmaison Brasserie---think upscale pub and lounge food---along with a full bar and wine list. Both options serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Expect to share space with businesspeople midweek and party seekers on the weekend, but we find these seemingly disparate groups coming together in one place not only makes the atmosphere that much more interesting but also speaks to the super-customized service that appeals to everyone.

The Look

Definitely more contemporary than the design details from the 1970s, Malmaison London constructed a psuedo-industrial feel---you may find actual wooden floorboards or crafty wallpaper that’s merely printed with what you’d swear is concrete or exposed brick (until you touch it)---punctuated by bright color and easy style that almost seems attainable at home. The custom-ordered Sealy Posturepedic beds bedecked with velveteen pillows and blankets emblazoned with the Mal “M”, and tufted headboard inject a zany glamour. Speaking of zany, we quite adore the patchwork seating at the in-room table and the black lounge chair found in Club and Executive rooms: they feel mismatched to an extent yet fit perfectly together as a whole. As encouraged by the hotel, take your party up to the Executive Suite if that strikes your fancy, but we find on the whole the Standard Double rooms tick all our boxes for ample space, style, and comfort.

In Short

Whether you’re in London for business or for pleasure, Malmaison London offers a capital experience that appeals to everyone. It’s not simply one thing or the other; Mal is the sort of hotel that unifies its guests with warm hospitality, vibrant restaurants and lounges, and a comfortable room that takes you back to the best of home.