Behind the curtain at Ember Locke

The latest aparthotel from Locke, spread across eight floors, will include 121 apartments, ranging from studios to duplex one-bedroom apartments. The lobby and common areas of Ember Locke will be complemented by a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, small stage for live performances, co-working space, meeting room and garden. Additional facilities include a gym and laundry room. Prominently situated on the historic Cromwell Road, the hotel is in a neighbourhood rich with culture and is within walking distance of some of London’s most famous museums, including the Natural History Museum, the V&A, the Science Museum and the Design Museum.

Image credit: Ember Locke

Designed in collaboration by creative and interior design studios Atelier Ochre and House of Dré, the inspiration behind the design was taken from the late Kensington Roof Gardens and the laissez-faire flamboyance demonstrated by the iconic mid-century fashion brand Biba, born in Kensington’s bohemian fashion scene in the 1960’s. The warm and distinctive interiors of the hotel, and the layering of casual and bohemian spaces with soft ambient tones and hues, welcome guests and provide solace from the bustle of Cromwell Road. Elements of warm earthy tones have been combined with maximalist furnishings, while Art Deco styles are combined with 21st century retro futurism, making the interiors a nostalgia-soaked reimagining of over a decade of glamour in Kensington. Bespoke art pieces by House of Dré adorn the walls in the guestrooms and public spaces, while a host of local and up-and-coming artist’s work has been chosen to be displayed throughout the property.

“We’re very excited to be opening our first property in West London, in an ideal neighbourhood for Locke,” said Eric Jafari, Chief Development Officer and Creative Director, Locke. “This part of West London has long captured the attention of leisure and business travellers alike – you have some of the city’s best museums and shopping locations on your doorstep and in the last few years the area has had a real spotlight on it, with some of the best restaurants in London opening here. With the buzzing neighbourhood of Notting Hill close by and tranquil Hyde Park moments away, we are excited for Ember Locke to open its doors for guests.”

The interiors of the apartments have been curated as a series of boudoir rooms with colourful tones, luxurious materials, vibrant patterns and Art Deco details. Guests are transported to a bygone, yet fundamentally modern era, through bold character pieces including sweeping rolled banquette seating, deconstructed wardrobes and retro fittings. Elements of glamour are evident throughout with brass detailing, fringes, tassels and heavy dividing curtains ensuring a sophisticated feel to the apartments.

Main image credit: Ember Locke