Honouring a Boutique Legacy
From its earliest days, The Capital distinguished itself through individuality and innovation, even laying claim to coining the term boutique. Its culinary pedigree was confirmed in 1973, when the hotel restaurant was awarded a Michelin star, making it one of the first hotels in the city to receive this accolade.
Today’s renovation builds on this legacy. Over the past 12 months, the property has undergone a comprehensive transformation across public spaces, guest rooms, suites, and residences, ensuring the hotel remains true to its refined character while responding to the expectations of the modern luxury traveller.
A Thoughtful Redesign Inspired by Knightsbridge
The renewed interiors draw inspiration from the surrounding neighbourhood and the natural beauty of nearby Hyde Park. Soft, organic tones and tactile textures reflect the calm of the park, creating a sense of quiet sophistication throughout the hotel. The result is an atmosphere that feels both reassuringly familiar and subtly refreshed.
Guests are welcomed into a newly refurbished reception and concierge area, where neutral palettes and natural materials set the tone for a warm, elegant arrival. Nearby, the Library has been reimagined as a cosy retreat, perfect for lingering afternoons with a book or enjoying the hotel’s celebrated traditional British afternoon tea.
The Journey to Comfort
From the moment guests ascend the grand staircase, the journey through the hotel becomes part of the experience. Elegant corridors are lined with bespoke scenic wallpaper, transforming what might be a simple passageway into an immersive, almost storybook-like transition to the private spaces beyond.
The refreshed Executive and Superior Rooms feature deep forest greens and vibrant natural reds, creating a rich yet inviting palette. Thoughtfully curated furnishings and indulgent walk-in showers ensure comfort at every level. Deluxe King Rooms, meanwhile, showcase opulent fabrics, theatrical bespoke mirrors, and many retained original features, offering a sense of drama alongside generous space.
The hotel’s Suites elevate the experience further, with bespoke furniture, modern art, and picturesque views over Basil Street, an ideal setting for extended stays in the capital.
Apartments Designed for Living
For longer stays, the hotel’s Studios, One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments provide a true home-from-home experience. Designed in an elegant classical-modern style, each residence features a self-contained kitchen, bespoke fixtures, and statement lighting. Select apartments even benefit from private outdoor spaces, including a secluded courtyard terrace, an exceptional rarity in Knightsbridge.
Crowning the collection is the remarkable Three-Bedroom Penthouse, a 157 sqm residence spanning two levels, complete with private elevator access, expansive living and dining spaces, and two outdoor areas overlooking the rooftops of London.
The Creative Vision Behind the Transformation
The refurbishment was brought to life by two highly respected British design studios, each contributing their expertise to different aspects of the hotel.
Guest rooms, suites, and circulation spaces were redesigned by JSJ Design, whose work is rooted in celebrating British heritage with a contemporary sensibility. Drawing inspiration from Knightsbridge’s Victorian past and the pre-Raphaelite movement, the designs incorporate jewel-toned palettes inspired by Rossetti paintings, alongside bespoke carpets, wall coverings, and artwork that reference local architecture and nature.
The transformation of the hotel’s public spaces—including reception, guest washrooms, and the Library, was led by Helen Stephens and her studio Absolute. Their approach focused on enhancing functionality while creating a warmer, more welcoming arrival experience. Retaining original marble elements and introducing bespoke oak panelling, feature lighting, and finely crafted details, the redesign celebrates the hotel’s distinctly British character while ensuring longevity and comfort.
A Renewed Icon for Modern Travellers
With its refurbishment complete, The Capital Hotel, Apartments & Townhouse continues to offer what it has always done best: an intimate, elegant retreat in the heart of London. By honouring its past while embracing a renewed sense of contemporary luxury, the hotel reaffirms its place as one of Knightsbridge’s most enduring and quietly exceptional addresses.
