Iconic hotelier Ian Schrager and famed interior design firm Yabu Pushelberg never cease to blow our expectations right out of the water. Upon arrival to the London Edition hotel, the acute attention to detail was undeniably apparent.

Once a set of five classically British townhouses which were converted in 1909 into the Berners Hotel, (aptly named for the street it resides on), the hotel’s idiosyncratic European architectural features proposed the backdrop for Ian Schrager’s and Yabu Pushelberg’s juxtaposing modern components.

A grandiose entrance equipped with plush and regal Donald Judd inspired velvet seating impressed greatly, while an ornate fireplace added warmth and a cozy glow. Christian Liaigre black metal furniture and lighting, 24-karat gold Salvador Dali inspired floor lamps, an antique billiard table, and mustard velvet slipper chairs all speak to the old-world luxury that inhabits the space.

The building’s previous life as a dazzling luxury hotel at the heart of London nightlife, which played host to King Edward VII as well as Carl Fabergé, shown through the ornate ceiling and wall moldings of the hotel’s restaurant, Berner’s Tavern, run by Executive Chef Jason Atherton. The majestic bar situated in the heart of the lobby is not just for show. The cocktail geniuses behind the bar intuitively know exactly what you’re looking for in a bespoke nightcap (Derren specifically is quite the drink whisperer).

Layered on top of all this historical beauty, are the modern and clean elements representative of Schrager’s and Pushelberg’s styles. The rooms with their oak floors and dark walnut paneled walls are designed with detail at the forefront. From the Braun clock beside the bed and the Prouve chair that adorns the space-efficient cantilevered desk, to the cleanly tucked away storage in the bathroom; all meticulously done. Even the hotel’s branding, by Baron and Baron was fantastically executed and spoke of the hotel’s maturely simple and sophisticated style. Another detail which cannot be overlooked; the seductive ambiance set by Isometrix & Patrick Woodroffe’s lighting design.

At the London Edition, taupe coloured walls, dusty rose chairs, and grand mohair banquettes engage with simple and faultless minimalism in a subtle play between period detail and modernity. A dark and sexy palate adorned with bronze and gold throughout, emulate the truly venerable character of the guests the hotel attracts. Other hotels take note – from the extraordinary service right down to the staff’s uniforms (by Freddie Leiba), the London Edition offers up a standard that should be upheld – always.