Scheme by Richard Rogers’ firm has been recommended for approval by Westminster planners
Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners proposals to redevelop part of a five-star hotel in one of London’s most expensive areas are set to be approved by Westminster council tonight.
The practice has worked with the owners of the Berkeley Hotel since 2006, masterminding the redevelopment of the building’s Wilton Place entrance, and is now set for consent to replace its northernmost parts, boosting the room count and providing 13 apartments
RSHP’s proposals, for the Berkeley’s Knightsbridge Wing and 33-39 Knightsbridge opposite Hyde Park, would update and expand a scheme approved in 2008, and deliver 59 additional hotel bedrooms, a new restaurant, gym and a spa in a scheme of up to 10 storeys and four basement levels.
Recommending the scheme for approval, Westminster planning officers said: “The design is considered acceptable given the prevailing mixed character of Knightsbridge and it will not cause harm to the setting of the adjacent designated heritage assets and is in accordance with national and local policy.”
The latest incarnation of the scheme will take the Berkeley’s room-count to 273, up from the current 214. The hotel’s room rates range from around £300 a night for a single room to more than £2,000 a night for some suites.
The Berkeley traces its origins to 1700 when it was the Gloucester Coffeehouse on the corner of Piccadilly and Berkeley Street. It adopted its current name and status in 1897 and moved to its current home in 1972.
Designed by British architect Brian O’Rorke, the hotel incorporates restored features from the original building, including fireplaces in the suites. It has a swimming pool on the top floor.
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