British Designer Unveils Grand Suite at London’s Oldest Hotel

Paul Smith has transformed a historic suite inside London’s oldest operating hotel, bringing his signature colorful aesthetic and tailoring background to a sprawling 155-square-meter accommodation. The renowned British designer partnered with Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte property located in Mayfair, to reimagine the expansive space, blending classic English heritage with mid-century modern furniture, bespoke fabrics, and vibrant splashes of color.

The collaboration unites two pillars of British style: the landmark Mayfair hotel, which first opened its doors on Albemarle Street in 1837, and the Nottingham-born designer known for his classic-with-a-twist philosophy. According to details released by the property, the newly unveiled Grand Suite serves as a physical manifestation of Smith’s creative universe, featuring custom-designed carpets, curated artwork chosen by the designer himself, and quirky decorative touches integrated throughout the living areas and bedroom.

“Brown’s Hotel has such an incredible history and is a true London institution,” Paul Smith noted in statements regarding the design partnership. By marrying his distinct visual language with the historic architecture of the building, the designer has updated a traditional luxury offering into an immersive environment for travelers seeking design-forward accommodations in the British capital.

Inside the 155-Square-Meter Paul Smith Grand Suite

Occupying a prime footprint within the Mayfair establishment, the 155-square-meter suite is structured to feel less like a traditional hotel room and more like a collector’s stylish London apartment. The space incorporates bespoke elements created through collaborations with iconic British manufacturers and luxury brands that Paul Smith has frequently partnered with over the course of his career.

Visitors stepping into the suite encounter a balanced mix of antique pieces sourced specifically for the project, alongside modern lighting and custom textiles. Classic Chesterfield sofas have been reupholstered in striped fabrics, while bespoke wool blankets designed by Paul Smith for Maharam drape cleanly over armchairs. The walls feature a carefully curated selection of art prints, photography, and humorous objects that reflect the designer’s personal taste and inquisitive eye.

The bedroom continues the vibrant yet comforting theme, utilizing rich earth tones contrasted with sharp pops of primary colors. Bathrooms are finished in classic marble, accented with custom amenity packaging and playful details that maintain the design narrative from room to room. Every corner of the suite offers a distinct visual texture, highlighting the designer’s affinity for unexpected color combinations and meticulous attention to detail.

The Heritage of Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair

Located at 33 Albemarle Street, Brown’s Hotel holds a unique place in London’s hospitality history. Founded by James and Sarah Brown in 1837—the same year Queen Victoria ascended to the throne—the establishment hosted numerous historical milestones. Alexander Graham Bell made the first-ever successful telephone call from the hotel in 1876, and legendary author Agatha Christie drew inspiration from its rooms while writing her novels.

The property became part of Rocco Forte Hotels in 2003, undergoing extensive restorations while retaining its quintessential British character. The introduction of the Paul Smith Grand Suite marks the latest chapter in the hotel’s long-standing tradition of collaborating with notable British cultural figures and designers to update its classic suites for contemporary luxury travelers.

Bookings for the Grand Suite are currently managed directly through the Brown’s Hotel reservations platform, with nightly rates reflecting its status as one of the premier design-led accommodations in central London. Travelers interested in experiencing the collaboration can find further details, availability, and property information by visiting the official Rocco Forte Hotels website.