It was all systems go for Accor last week with an opening party for their newly built 4 star Novotel Blackfriars going on next door to the one for the updated Ibis. This 182 room hotel with sleek modern public spaces including an open theatre kitchen and beautiful guest rooms is amongst the most technologically advanced hotels in London.
Guests will find self check in desks in the lobby area where there is a video wall featuring digital art and once again Monscierge provides a virtual interactive system to help you plan your day.
The latest Microsoft Surface table and I Macs are also there for guest use with I-Pads and TV Dining tables in the restaurant . Floor to ceiling windows flood the hotel with natural light and a bold monochrome bar divides the lobby lounge from the 84 seat Element restaurant serving British and European cuisine.
Access to guest rooms is with an electronic touch key system. Of particular interest is the touch screen privacy screen in the bathroom where the transparent glass partition becomes opaque at the touch of a switch. Bedrooms come in two colour ways and feel relaxing and light. Executive rooms have balconies with great views of the city especially at night.
I pod docking stations, Free wifi access and a media hub mean the hotel will appeal to business and leisure guests alike. After a day in town they can relax in the pool, sauna and steam room or de-stress in the state of the art ‘ In Balance’ fitness centre. This is spacious enough not to make guests feel crowded so the work out is more enjoyable.
Seven meeting rooms are available for up to 90 delegates and they include Interactive whiteboard technology. There is a large breakout area to enjoy coffee and snacks.
From a first impression I can only agree with Accor’s Thomas Dubaere ” This is our finest Novotel to date and represents the next generation …in the UK. The quality style and class of this hotel is evident from top to bottom and is a hotel to be seen and enjoyed.”
For a French group however it is somewhat suprising that there are only UK sockets in the bedrooms, no continental or US variations to be seen…
©Words and Pictures Christine Brett for HotelDesigns
