One of London’s most prestigious addresses welcomes The OWO, a spectacular new destination. The OWO, housed in a structure of epic proportions, is where you’ll find The OWO Residences by Raffles, the first Raffles hotel in London, as well as a variety of unique eateries and bars that are inspired by the world’s most exciting foodie destinations. The OWO marks a turning point for Whitehall, a district closely associated with politicians, as a fun location to celebrate, enjoy yourself, unwind, stay, and live.
“The OWO is a renowned structure with a colorful past. The Hinduja Group’s Sanjay Hinduja remarked, “From the beginning of the project, we have gone above and beyond to guarantee that this jewel in the center of Whitehall is repaired, preserved, and resurrected in the most suitable way to produce a heritage site for the next generations.
The eagerly awaited Raffles London at The OWO, the company’s first establishment in the UK, offers 120 roomy guest rooms and suites, Mauro Colagreco’s signature dining options, impressive entertainment areas like a grand ballroom, and a sizable spa that was developed in collaboration with Guerlain and Pillar Wellbeing.
“It is an honor for us to be a part of this enormous undertaking. Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles & Orient Express, described the opening of Raffles London at The OWO as “an incredible highlight” and “one of the most significant moments in the history of the Raffles brand, which has long been synonymous with legendary service, glamour, art, and storied destinations.”
Raffles London pays tribute to the building’s heritage while delivering a sense of timeless grandeur, from the brilliant splendor of the Grand Staircase, delicately wrapped around a breath-taking chandelier, to the mosaic-tiled floors and oak-panelled walls. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of some of the most significant figures of the 20th century and consider the crucial choices made inside its illustrious walls. Hinduja Group and Onex Group, the building’s custodians, have been fervently dedicated to the revival of the Old War Office’s heritage elements, drawing on the skills of hundreds of craftsmen throughout its extensive eight-year restoration.
“We are thrilled to offer visitors the highly individualized and intelligent service for which Raffles is renowned throughout the world, in an unmatched environment. We have had the great fortune to collaborate with world-class partners to create this new destination, including talented designers, elite chefs, and forward-thinking restaurateurs alongside the biggest names in fragrance, beauty, and wellness. I feel pleased and honored to have been a part of this historic undertaking, which has far surpassed any expectations. Managing Director of Raffles London Philippe Leboeuf stated at The OWO, “It is certainly a legend in the making.
Famous designer, the late Thierry Despont, turned magnificent State Rooms and big halls of Raffles London into 120 guest rooms and suites. The Heritage Suites, which were once the offices of prominent military and political figures, are located in the building’s historically noteworthy regions. The Haldane suite can be merged to make a six-bedroom, 500 square foot suite. It was once Sir Richard Haldane’s, John Profumo’s, and Winston Churchill’s offices. One of the largest luxury hotel wings available in London, this area is referred to as The Whitehall Wing and can house up to twelve guests.
Eight Corner Suites that are named after famous women and female spies associated with The OWO’s history are also emphasized. These statues, which honor WWII agents like Christian Lamb and British female spy Vera May Atkins as well as notable women like Viscountess Astor and Clementine Churchill, are located in the rounded pavilion corners of the structure.
Exclusively with Raffles London, renowned chef Mauro Colagreco will oversee three distinctive dining experiences there. These three distinct ideas will highlight the beauty of the best seasonal produce in the UK, which is obtained from regional farms, fields, and beaches.
Diners may experience Mauro Colagreco’s culinary inventiveness and enthusiasm for sustainability at his signature restaurant, Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, thanks to his dedication to sourcing local, seasonal ingredients. Through a series of tasting menus, dishes here will emphasize the vast range of native British vegetables. The small Mauro’s Table, which can accommodate up to 23 people next door, is centered on a stunning dining table. Head chef Leonel Aguirre will transport customers on a sensory tour of English gardens, supported by a theatrical show kitchen.
Saison, Mauro’s casual dining establishment, will modernize the classic hotel dining experience. This exquisite establishment, housed in a former Old War Office library, serves seasonal Mediterranean food all day long, including breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Chef Colagreco’s seasonal culinary devotion and philosophy will be evident in Saison, which will live up to its name.
Additionally, Raffles London introduces two moody bars in settings unlike any other. The OWO pays tribute to its lengthy affiliation and illustrious connections with the Household Cavalry at The Guards Bar & Lounge. The Guards Bar and Lounge will offer its own distinctive “London Sling,” which is part of a comprehensive menu of 16 drinks with a focus on British ingredients blended with flavors from the East. The Drawing Room, a laid-back all-day lounge with views of Horse Guards, and Pillar Kitchen, a well-being-focused establishment that goes beyond healthy food, are additional outlets at the hotel.
Raffles London at The OWO emphasizes wellness with a cutting-edge Guerlain Spa that spans 27,000 square feet over four stories. The Goddard Littlefair-designed spa offers a wide variety of amenities and services to give visitors a really opulent spa experience. There is also a gorgeous 20-meter swimming pool with plush lounge chairs around it, a vitality pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and a movement studio. There are also
Steam and sauna facilities. There are also nine finely designed treatment suites, including three roomy VIP Spa Suites and L’Atelier Guerlain, a private area for beauty and hair services.Through individualized, cutting-edge training and nutrition, Pillar Wellbeing, developed by elite performance coach Harry Jameson, will help members attain their maximum potential. The OWO Residences by Raffles, Raffles London guests, Raffles Wellbeing members, and day visitors will all be able to use the spa.
The most significant events in the city will now take place at Raffles London, from lavish weddings and historically significant state dinners to enormous commercial gatherings and product launches. The amazing Whitehall Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 600 guests and is accessed by the magnificent Grand Staircase, is complimented by a sizable pre-function area and two special conference rooms called Morse and Code, offering Raffles London an ideal setting for the most extravagant events.
With a master plan that includes an outstanding collection of restaurants and bars, the UK’s first Raffles hotel, The Guerlain Spa, and 85 private residences, the project has brought together some of the most talented architects and designers in the world. It certainly is unique to London, said board member of the Onex Group Abdellah Belhadh Hamlili.
Source- Travel daily