The owners have now sold the building and in 2006 it was converted back to an up market residence. It remains in the Directory as an example of a style from the times.

Designers and Architects Nagan Johnson were originally briefed to upgrade what was then The Executive in Knightsbridge, a tired traditional looking hotel and to give it a contemporary look. Client was Beauchamp Hotels and Bryan Duffy for whom the designers had completed The Kensington Hotel, another exercise in design from top to toe.





The sub basement Lounge acts also as breakfast room and here the designers modified the existing space to incorporate a small bar. A mellow space in brown, leather, luxurious fabrics and an open fireplace. A splash of pink gives it a lift. Again all furniture and lighting was designed by Nagan Johnson, apart from the metal framed chairs.

Out with the old
All existing services and fabric of the building were to remain largely intact. However, on opening up the building it was found that all the electrics, heating and most of the plumbing was defunct and had to be replaced. Asbestos was found in the ducts which had to be removed. They were suddenly faced with a far more comprehensive job than first envisaged.

As the works became more comprehensive, the design scheme was upgraded and Nagan Johnson were able to implement a far more radical reappraisal of the refurbishment, whilst retaining and exposing original features.




Bedroom design is simple, good looking and comfortable. Four colour schemes were drawn up for the 22 bedrooms using a strong modern palette with unusual colour combinations - red/grey, brown/red/rust, slate blue/cream, deep blue/taupe. Strong colour is used on feature walls at the head of the bed with point light falling on a gilded panel of either gold or silver leaf. Previously hidden high ceilings, cornices and full height windows were exposed giving adding volume to the rooms.

A soft touch
Furnishings were then kept plain and simple. Plain cotton velvet curtains with hole punched heading are hung on straight heavy poles. All rooms no matter what size have varying degrees of armchairs, sofas, foot stools, all in soft touch fabrics for the comfort factor. Again, no matter how small the room or the size of the shower cubicle, all have power showers with body jets and a flip down seat. Practicality is provided with 'desk' and chair combination, metal framed with inset panels of American Black Walnut, specially designed by Nagan Johnson.

 Development Team:

Architects - Nagan Johnson
Main Contractor - Michael Leonard Interiors
Client - Beauchamp Hotels/Bryan Duffy

Photography - Robert Hall Photograph, London
© Copyright Hotel Designs 2007