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The Savoy Reopens And A New Era Of Luxury Begins The most ambitious hotel restoration in history is complete
“We are very excited to reopen The Savoy,” comments Kiaran MacDonald, General Manager. “It is fair to say that this project has not been without its challenges, but we are looking forward to unveiling the results of nearly three years of hard work and dedication. We are very aware of the place that The Savoy holds in many people’s affections and we firmly believe that the hotel will exceed people’s expectations and reclaim its position as one of the world’s great hotels.”
The hotel’s two main design aesthetics, Edwardian and Art Deco, have been carefully brought back to life under the direction of world-renowned designer Pierre Yves Rochon. More than 1000 craftsmen and women, artists and artisans have worked tirelessly to create interiors that are in keeping with the hotel’s original and much-loved spirit. The Savoy’s reopening includes the addition of a stately 325-square meter Royal Suite featuring two bedrooms, a study, sitting room, dining room, master bathroom, dressing room (with a specially ventilated shoe closet) and a master bedroom with a bespoke Savoir bed. The suite has been specially designed so that all the rooms enjoy one of the finest views of London.
In its inception, The Savoy was famous for its cutting edge innovations, such as “ascending rooms”, known today as elevators, and en suite baths. Continuing in its avant-garde tradition, The Savoy will introduce world's first Green Butler. In addition to providing all the traditional 'butler' services such as unpacking and packing (using recycled tissue paper), serving morning coffee and arranging receptions, The Savoy's Green Butler will also have an in-depth knowledge of 'all things green' around London. The restoration has introduced environmental technologies and efficiencies wherever possible. For example, a combined heat and power (CHP) plant will reduce the hotel's reliance on the national grid by approximately 50 per cent and an innovative system will reclaim the heat from all kitchen appliances to preheat domestic hot water. Cooking oil from the hotel restaurants will be recycled and turned into biodiesel, while waste management systems will recycle up to 90 per cent of waste from the hotel. The hotel also partners with the Thames 21 charitable organization to help maintain the stretch of River Thames in front of The Savoy. For further information visit: THE
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TRAVEL HOME PAGE EDITORIAL >> TRAVEL >> EUROPE > UNITED KINGDOM > LONDON |
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TORONTO
- The Savoy, London, a 
Established
in 1889, The Savoy was the brainchild of the Gilbert and Sullivan
impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte. Originally managed by Swiss hotelier
César Ritz and Maitre Chef Auguste Escoffier, the hotel quickly
became known for its glittering parties and glitterati guests.
Escoffier created dishes for Sarah Bernhardt, Lily Langtry, Dame
Nellie Melba and the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, while
Ritz instituted the impeccable service, attention to detail and
creativity that came to be the hallmark of the hotel. (photo
right - Christian Dior with models, 1950) For more than a
century, Savoy Court was the stopping point for the Rolls-Royces
of royalty, prime ministers and Hollywood stars. 
Thirty-eight
new River Suites (left) and guestrooms have been added, offering
the same stunning views over the River Thames that inspired Whistler
and Monet. Nine Personality Suites will pay tribute to a few of
the artists and well known figures who made this legendary hotel
their London home away from home including Maria Callas, Charlie
Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich and Frank Sinatra. The suites contain
artwork, literature, photographs and artifacts that evoke the
time and spirit of the stars including the 12 pink roses in the
Marlene Dietrich Suite that the actress always requested upon
arrival. 
The
bars and restaurants of The Savoy have always played a major role
in establishing the reputation of the hotel and a new life has
been breathed into them. (photo right - Thames Foyer) The
legendary River Restaurant sees a contemporary interpretation
of Art Deco décor, while guests will welcome the reopening of
the American Bar, refreshed but intact in spirit. In addition,
Savoy Grill will return under the operation of Gordon Ramsay Holdings
with Chef Patron, Stuart Gillies and Head Chef, Andy Cook. 
New
to the hotel is The Beaufort Bar (left), a glamorous Art Deco
bar built on the hotel’s original cabaret stage that will offer
champagne, cocktails and cabaret and Savoy Tea, a bijou teashop
selling Savoy tea, accessories and fresh patisserie. Within the
Thames Foyer, the re-introduction of a stunning gazebo beneath
an ornate glass dome will provide the perfect ambience for afternoon
tea. 
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