Suites in Focus

Simon Abela is an Associate at the G.A Group, the talent behind Corinthia London’s newly redesigned suites.

Simon Abela is an Associate at the G.A Group – the talent behind Corinthia London’s newly redesigned suites. An expert in how to create the perfect surroundings for modern travellers, he shares his perspective on designing for the new luxury-seeker and his inspiration by our favourite city for the new London Suite.

The brief for the London Suite was to design a space that resonates with the city’s lifestyle – that balance between work, rest and play. The dual aspect layout of the suite symbolises this concept; the living area overlooks the magnificent, historical buildings on Whitehall Place, while the bedroom in contrast is set on the inner side of the building, for a tranquil space to rest after a busy day.

We wanted to capture the vibrancy and diversity of London in the design details, while at the same time ensuring it complemented the overarching style of the hotel. There is a strong focus on craftsmanship throughout; we commissioned bespoke furniture in a fine selection of fabrics and veneers and selected a specific timber flooring in a traditional chevron pattern.

Open shelving works as a dividing screen between the dining and the living spaces, allowing daylight to flood through uninterrupted. We also chose a selection of artworks by British artists to complement the room’s character and the hotel’s existing portfolio.

Do we have a particular person in mind when we’re designing? No, because today’s traveller can be anyone and everyone. They could be stopping over for a short business trip, celebrating a special occasion, be regular guests in luxury hotels or be visiting this city for the very first time. Whatever the purpose of the stay, a well-designed suite should be a seamless transition from home to room: familiar, but also with all the contemporary conveniences and classic elegance that Corinthia London embodies.

One of my favourite details of the London Suite is the bespoke cocktail cabinet. It celebrates the retro flair of cocktail making as a playful indulgence – I’d want to check in and instantly mix up a martini.