Sanctum Soho is one of the best kept secrets in the little black book of the discerning cosmopolitan traveller. Housed in a sumptuous – albeit low-key – conversion of twin Georgian town houses and tucked away on Warwick Street in London’s buzzing West End, this hidden gem provides comfort, style and sophistication within striking distance of some of the most desirable haunts of Soho and Mayfair.

The hotel, a major investor of which is  Andy Taylor (manager of Iron Maiden), pays homage to the thrill and artistic history of Soho. The Santum keeps alive the legacy of a ‘safe haven’ for the legions of stars that play, drink and party in the area. Without doubt, it is a flagship for Soho’s trademarks of style, extravagance and luxury, thanks to unique features like the underground cinema, its excellent contemporary British restaurant and the rooftop garden echoing the Biba-esque glamour of the Sixties, replete with an indulgent hydro-spa.

The rock and roll attitude doesn’t stop at its facilities, however. The interior design reflects the zeitgeist of contemporary inner-city London. While it is as magnificent now as in the original era of hedonism which the Sanctum reflects, 21st century visitors can expect a far more understated vibe. Swarovski crystals and golden gilded mirrors sit effortlessly alongside minimal features to provide a delightfully contemporary balance of rock and roll decadence and chilled out, timeless style.

The hotel’s exterior exudes an Old World charm with its traditional Georgian façades, giving the viewer a sense of the opulence – if not the requiescence –  within. Step inside and it is immediately evident that the hoteliers behind this chic establishment have upped their game another notch. Xavier Pick’s artwork, which rotates on a regular basis, gives a contemporary edge to the timelessly fabulous interior design,

courtesy of Lesley Purcell at Can Do. Her beautiful and fresh takes on interior manage to offer the guest an atmosphere of relaxation and calm – whilst still hinting at the naughtiness on offer if you know where to look.

On sunny days, and with a cocktail in hand, you can catch a panoramic view of London’s sweeping vista from the jacuzzi, bubbling away on the sun terrace on the top floor of the hotel. After catching some rays, you might choose to tuck yourself away in the underground cinema to take advantage of the excellently chosen films on show – an experience that was fully welcomed by writers Annabel and Anneka Treon; whose blog – www.thebirkineffect.com provides tips and reviews to young professional women who strive for perfection in everything from their self-perception to their accommodation. FAULT caught up with them on the Sanctum roof terrace.

Annabel: I think I’d describe the hotel as rock chic; definitely. It’s just got a great vibe, I love it. Especially sitting out here on the roof terrace, the sun’s shining, the weather’s great and it’s just very relaxed. That said, throughout the hotel, you can really see attention to detail, from the Swarovski door handles to the amazing photography on the walls.

Anneka: The photography’s all water themed which is part of a bigger initiative to support the fresh water charity fresh2o (www.fresh2o.org). Generally speaking, I have to say that this is the first time I’ve been to the hotel and I do think its super cool. Boutiques are definitely ‘in’ at the moment; we’re all bored of the old establishments; they’re a little bit stuffy and need updating.

Here – well, there’s a jacuzzi on the roof, you know…!

Annabel: Yes, it’s definitely a breath of fresh air for London hotels. I think that’s the best way of describing it really. Oh, and the restaurant downstairs is great; the food was excellent and the service was amazing. All round thumbs up!

Words by Kat Rutherford

www.sanctumsoho.com