“Stars don’t beg the world for attention; their beauty forces us to look up.” – Matshona Dhliwayo
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, this architecturally attractive 5-star hotel, in central London continues to strike a juxtaposition between the moody and serene as it prides itself as a cultural hub as well as a hotel and dining destination in central London. ME London is as much about the architecture as it is the rooms and dining spaces.
It is evident that creativity and design is at the forefront of everything the hotel does and sweeps through its striking lobby and dimly lit corridors. From its black tetrahedron shape, artwork from resident artists, live DJ music and fine cuisine, you’d be forgiven for forgetting it also has 157 rooms available.
An Impressively Designed Hotel Space
Designed by Foster & Partner architects, the architectural practice responsible for London’s City Hall and Gherkin building and Germany’s Reichstag, the ME Hotel sits on a triangular site on the corner of London’s Aldwych. A rooftop cocktail cherry throw away from Covent Garden and theatre land as well as enviable views down the Strand and towards the River Thames, the ME Hotel is an impressive location to rest ones head after a busy day in the UK’s capital.
Navigating around the hotel space does come with its challenges, but that’s the beauty of the dimly lit space. None more as impressive than the hotel’s lobby. Situated on the first floor, guests exit a dimly lit lift and enter at the foot of a cavernous pyramid structure that extends all the way up to the rooftop bar.
Serving as the check in desks for guests, situated in the centre of the lobby is a giant book which seems oddly in proportion against the backdrop of the large pristine white leather sofas. Whilst projected on to the marble walls are aquatic images that give the effect of transporting you to another realm. Complimentary welcome Prosecco consumed, the sensory journey continues into the black marble clad walls on each floor and the dimly lit corridors.
Dining at ME London
In terms of drinks and dining options, the ME Hotel has three avant-garde gastronomic concepts with the finest cuisine available to those who dine in house, most notably the Radio Rooftop Bar. Situated on the 10 th floor of the ME Hotel, this lively bar offers music, views and small bites of mediterranean-style cuisine. The real draw of the Radio Rooftop Bar however are its cocktails and panoramic views. They also offer a rather pleasant breakfast and brunch buffet. If you’re looking for something with a bit more meat, then STK Steakhouse provides a modern steakhouse located within an elegant lounge serving the finest grilled dishes.
The final dining experience located within the confines of the ME Hotel is Luciano by Gino D’Acampo. An authentic Italian service with a focus on quality, Luciano incorporates classic Italian dishes with a focus on quality and the sourcing of fresh ingredients. Supported by an authentic Italian service complementing the menu it all adds to the premium yet casual dining experience. Other services and facilities on offer from the hotel include a private car park and valet parking, dry cleaning, tourist information and a small 24-hour gym.
Rooms at ME London
The landscape takes a dramatic change however once you enter your room. Well lit with white leather finishes the rooms are modern and minimalist, helping to create a bigger space than initially expecting. Whilst slightly narrow in layout, you are naturally drawn to the hotel room’s triangular shaped windows offering a seemingly secret view into the busy streets below.
For those who like to have options, then the 14 different types of rooms or suites available should give you more than enough choice when sizing up what is best suited for you. From the ‘Always ME City View’ room with a king-size bed through to the ‘Beyond ME+Suite Terrace’ and its views over London’s Skyline.
So we suggest you do as the name suggests and focus on ‘ME’ and treat yourself to a stay and a rooftop cocktail at the ME Hotel.
Edward Lumley is Editor-in-Chief for Of Wealth & Life and a Freelance Men’s Fashion Writer. Edward has written for publications such as FashionBeans, Harrods and a variety of online outlets specialising in Men’s fashion for the past eight years. Follow Edward on Instagram.
