Raffles London at The OWO opens its doors

Raffles London at The OWO has opened in the heart of Westminster, marking a new era of luxury hospitality in the UK capital

Following a landmark five-year transformation of the Grade II-listed Old War Office on Whitehall, in the heart of Westminster, Raffles London at The OWO has opened its doors.

The 120-key hotel within The OWO is complemented by 85 private Raffles branded residences, nine restaurants, three bars, and an expansive, 2,500sqm wellness space by the French beauty brand, Guerlain — the first in the UK.

The OWO has been meticulously renovated by EPR Architects to highlight the building’s storied heritage and the original Edwardian design by Scottish architect William Young. Original features retained during the renovation include the imposing grand staircase made from marble, hand-laid mosaic flooring, oak panelling, and chandeliers.

“The OWO is a legendary building with a storied history,” said Sanjay Hinduja from Hinduja Group, the owner of the building. “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.”

The late French designer and architect, Thierry Despont — whose projects have included The Getty Centre and the restoration of the Statue of Liberty — was appointed to create the interiors for Raffles.

“We are honored to be part of this monumental project. 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, glamor, art, and storied destinations,” said Omer Acar, CEO of Raffles & Orient Express.

The hotel is home to three dining concepts helmed by one of the world’s greatest culinary minds, Mauro Colagreco. Colagreco’s signature restaurant, Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, offers tasting menus centred on quality British produce. Other international restaurants set to open within the building will include Paper Moon, an export from Milan, the trendy Parisian restaurant Café Laperouse, and a Japanese rooftop restaurant by acclaimed chef, Endo Kazutoshi.

The Old War Office was the centre of Britain’s military and defence for more than 50 years from its completion in 1906. Some of the building’s former offices, once occupied by influential figures such as Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George, have been converted into signature suites. The Haldane suite, formerly the office of Winston Churchill, John Profumo, and Sir Richard Haldane can be combined to create a six-bedroom, 500sqm suite. Known as The Whitehall Wing, this can accommodate up to 12 guests — one of the largest luxury hotel wings available in London.

www.raffles.com/london