Opulent and glamorous, The Franklin-Starhotels Collezione hotel offers a refined modern luxury experience. Decorated with a mix of textures and materials such as rich velvets and polished mirrors, the hotel is sophisticated and worldly. Located on a particularly scenic street in Knightsbridge, The Franklin is steps from the famed Victoria & Albert Hotel and is a short walk from London’s prime shopping area, which includes Harrod’s famed department store.
Make sure to make time to enjoy a morning coffee in the private lush garden and later, get acquainted with The Franklin’s elegant hotel bar, which looks like a jewel box and makes memorable, thoughtful drinks (some are named for longtime bar visitors). Here, The Franklin’s manger Nicola Esclapez discusses the hotel’s signature style and how designer Anouska Hempel gave the hotel its signature look.
What’s the most requested room?
The Junior Suites.
The Franklin Hotel, Junior Suite
What makes it so special?
Anouska Hempel’s exquisite eye for composition comes to the fore in the Junior Suites. Here she perfectly balanced mirrors, furniture and décor to create a classical design with a bright contemporary feel. The luxurious marble bathroom features a separate shower enclosure or bathtub. The Junior Suites are the ideal location for celebrating a special occasion with a romantic view over the private Egerton Gardens.
What is the rate?
The average rate is £420.
The Franklin Hotel, Presidential Suite
What room is your personal favorite?
I love The Presidential Suite. Our unique Presidential Suite reflects Anouska Hempel signature style, which is perceived down to the smallest detail. The spacious floor space includes a cozy private lounge, a spacious bedroom with a stunning view of the garden and a walk-in closet. A sophisticated sitting room features marbled surfaces, design mirrors and luxe furniture.
The Franklin Hotel, Presidential Suite
Any fun facts about the hotel or rooms?
Acquired by Starhotels in 2014, the hotel underwent a full renovation, maintaining many original features, and reopened in Autumn 2016 with a completely fresh look from renowned designer Anouska Hempel. Anouska Hempel is one of Architectural Digest’s Top 100 World Designers. For The Franklin, Anouska Hempel drew on her own lifestyle and took inspiration from her travels, masterfully combining sensual, Eastern influences with echoes of Italy and Morocco, and the spirit of a glorious bygone era, to create a property that feels more like a warm and inviting private townhome than a hotel.
All images courtesy of The Franklin
