Raffles Hotels & Resorts has made its long-anticipated debut in London, opening the doors to Raffles London at The OWO (Old War Office). Comprising a hotel and residences, spa and ballroom, alongside an array of restaurants and bars, The OWO heralds a new chapter for Whitehall.
Custodians of the building, Hinduja Group and Onex Group have been committed to the revival of the former Old War Office’s heritage features, employing the expertise of hundreds of craftsmen throughout its comprehensive eight-year restoration. From a grand staircase and striking chandelier, to mosaic-tiled floors and oak-panelled walls, Raffles London pays homage to the building’s history, with architecture and restoration led by EPR Architects. Greenspace meanwhile was tasked with developing the brand strategy, name and identity, creating a fitting legacy for the OWO.
120 guestrooms and suites have been designed by the late Thierry Despont. Situated in especially historically significant areas of the building are the Heritage Suites – the former offices of influential political and military leaders. The Haldane suite, formerly the office of Winston Churchill, John Profumo and Sir Richard Haldane can be combined to create a six-bedroom, 500m² suite. Known as The Whitehall Wing, the space can accommodate up to twelve guests.
Eight Corner Suites meanwhile are named after notable women and female spies connected with the history of The OWO. Situated in the rounded pavilion corners of the building, the spaces honour influential women such as Viscountess Astor and Clementine Churchill, as well as WWII operatives like Christian Lamb and British female spy Vera May Atkins.
“We are honoured to be part of this monumental project,” said Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles & Orient Express. “Opening Raffles London at The OWO within this historical building is an incredible highlight and marks one of the most important moments in the history of the Raffles brand which has long been synonymous with legendary service, glamour, art, and storied destinations.”
Sanjay Hinduja, Hinduja Group, adds: “The OWO is a legendary building with a storied history. From the outset of the project, we have gone above and beyond to ensure that this jewel in the heart of Whitehall is restored, curated and revived in the most appropriate way to deliver a heritage site for the next generations.”
Chef Mauro Colagreco is at the helm of three unique dining experiences within the hotel. Guests will have the chance to dine at Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO – the chef’s signature restaurant – Mauro’s Table, an intimate space centred around a dining table for up to 23 guests, and relaxed restaurant Saison, which serves up Mediterranean cuisine in the former library of The OWO.
Other food and beverage options at the hotel include The Guards Bar and Lounge, all day-lounge The Drawing Room and Pillar Kitchen, a wellbeing-focused outlet.
In tandem with Pillar Kitchen is the hotel’s wellbeing offering. A Guerlain Spa spans 2,500m² over four floors, designed by Goddard Littlefair. Here, a gym and movement studio, multiple pools, and steam and sauna rooms will find home alongside nine private treatment rooms, as well as L’Atelier Guerlain, a private beauty and hair treatment space. The hotel’s wellness offering is led by Pillar Wellbeing, who will provide personalised training and nutrition to guests.
Finally, the Raffles London at The OWO is able to host up to 600 guests in its Whitehall Ballroom, accessible via the grand staircase, and complemented by a pre-function space and dedicated meeting rooms, named Morse and Code.
