UK lifestyle apart hotel brand Native Places recently announced the opening of its newest property in one of London’s most historic locations. Native King’s Wardrobe, St Paul’s will mark the seventh property in the brand’s portfolio, and its second hotel in the capital…
Formerly known as the Royal Wardrobe in the 14th century, Native King’s Wardrobe, St Paul’s served primarily as a storehouse for the King’s state and ceremonial robes, as well as those belonging to members of the Royal Family. Breathing new life into the area whilst celebrating its fashionable history, Native Places introduces a revived, spacious, and characterful place to stay right in the heart of the City of London.
The hotel is spread across seven Grade II listed townhouses inhabiting a beautiful, private courtyard located just behind St Paul’s Cathedral. There are 92 bright and spacious suites in total, each with fully equipped kitchens, living and dining areas, and workspaces – kitted out with everything guests need for maximum comfort and enjoyment, whatever the reason for their stay; be it business or leisure, a long stay or short break. Bramley toiletries, fresh linens and Hypnos beds are in all of the apartments, while tapestry prints from House of Hackney adorn the walls. Guests can choose from studios as well as one, two- and three-bedroom suites.
“We are thrilled to introduce our latest property, Native King’s Wardrobe in St Paul’s, London,” commented Olivia Immesi, CEO of Native Places. “Since seeing the property for the first time, we’ve been captivated by the rich history and potential of this iconic space. Breathing new life into the former Royal Wardrobe, we’re not just creating a place to stay, we’re crafting an experience that honours the past while embracing the future. With a focus on sustainability, stylish design, and community connection, we’re redefining what it means to stay in the heart of London. Our spacious rooms offer guests a comfortable retreat amidst the bustling city, ensuring a restful stay. We look forward to welcoming visitors at Native King’s Wardrobe, as well as at Counter Café Bar & Courtyard and offer them a unique Native Places experience”.
From the outset, Native Places has been actively involved in guiding design choices and outlining the contractors’ tasks. The brand has played a significant role in the transformation of the historic Native King’s Wardrobe, St Paul’s, into a dynamic apart hotel experience, in line with its dedication to sophisticated design and community involvement. While emphasising the area’s storied past, sustainability is a central focus of the project, evident in eco-friendly suppliers and the use of recycled materials in furnishings. This commitment ensures that the property maintains its unique character while embodying eco-consciousness and a community-oriented ethos.
The hotel is also home to Counter Café Bar & Courtyard; a lively neighbourhood space developed by Native Places which can be found in its properties in Edinburgh and Manchester. Counter Café Bar & Courtyard marks the brand’s debut in London. By day, it showcases locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, along with artisanal pastries and a menu of delectable light bites. As the sun sets, the cosy establishment transforms into a neighbourhood wine bar, serving as the backdrop for curated events and a diverse array of beverages, all while shining a spotlight on the talents of the local scene.
Main image credit: Rebecca Hope