The latest short-term residences are giving boutique hotels a run for their money, Angelina Villa-Clarke investigates…
Design-led residences are having a moment in London. Marrying the luxury surrounds of a boutique hotel with the privacy, space and flexibility of apartment living, The Living Rooms is championing the trend with its three-piece collection of apartments and residences in various corners of the city.
Europa House is one of its most charming – found in London’s prettiest spot – Little Venice. It is made up of 14 spacious apartments carved out of an elegant Regency townhouse, just minutes from the centre of town.
Inside, apartments have a French-style flair with wood floors and one-off pieces by Tom Dixon and Mark Brazier-Jones. A two-bedroom apartment is just the thing for a family jaunt in the capital or for a gathering of friends for a special celebration. Available for short-term or long-term rentals, they work equally well for weekends away or for longer holidays. Each apartment also comes with the benefit of underground parking, a 24-hour concierge and on-site staff, should you need any assistance with anything.
Chic styling includes 1950s-style metal dressing tables, linen headboards and twinkling chandeliers. Thick white linens line the beds, which are accentuated with accent olive velvet pillows and acid-green throws, while a spacious living room, with dining area, boasts silk-taffeta drapes, thick rugs and cosy seating.
Ideal for breakfasts on the go – freshly-baked pastries can be arranged to be delivered – or lunch before hitting the town, the streamlined kitchen has modern appliances and quirky artwork. Gourmet welcome hampers and restaurant deliveries can be arranged, as well as any kitchen essentials you may need to kickstart your stay. Meanwhile, two bathrooms, with marble finishing and REN toiletries, mean there is enough pampering space for everyone. Those staying with children can also take advantage of the dedicated kids’ concierge, which arranges cots, high chairs, children’s crockery and a Kids Only cupboard filled with games, DVDs and books.
Other thoughtful touches include personal training on offer with TruBe, yoga mats in bedrooms and recipe books by Deliciously Ella and Hensley + Hemsley in the kitchen. What’s more, in-room spa and beauty treatments can also be booked via Urban Massage and Perfect 10.
Also standing it apart from other home-from-homes in the city, Europa House has the benefit of access to three-acres of award-winning private gardens – perfect for summer days spent al fresco. While, on its door-step is Clifton Road, which boasts a line-up of stylish cafes, organic delis and cool boutiques.
With a USP of immersing guests in local neighbourhoods, the collection also includes No 5 Maddox Street, which is found behind Bond Street and offers the feel of a luxury private home with the services of a five-star hotel. Meanwhile, in Marylebone, 56 Welbeck Street, is a stylish Georgian townhouse with seven light-filled apartments offering an artistic design ethos.
Limited-edition artwork, including prints by Tracey Emin, Gary Hume and Jake and Dinos Chapman, are juxtaposed with original mid-century furniture, original 1970’s framed chandeliers, and vintage Moroccan Berber rugs. Luxury linens, such as eclectic Tracey Boyd hand-beaded cushions, and art and design books lining the coffee table, add tons of personality. The only downside is the realisation that you have to go home.
Europa House, 79A Randolph Ave, Little Venice, London W9 1DW. A one-bedroom apartment costs from £185 per night. For more information, visit www.living-rooms.co.uk.
