ONEFIFTY FENCHURCH STREET - AN ADDRESS TO REMEMBER!

Stepping-out from London Bridge, I crossed the River Thames, admiring London’s defining landmarks ‘Tower Bridge’ and ‘The Tower of London’, alongside several medal waving participants who had - 48-hours earlier – completed the London Marathon and, obviously, decided to stay on in the capital. Just five minutes later, I was stood in front of ‘Onefifty Fenchurch Street', a brand new luxury aparthotel.

Onefifty sits right in the centre of London’s financial district; its numeric name a clever choice, as one could easily walk past its discreet, canopied entrance without noticing. However, that said - do take a moment to crossover the road and admire the building’s façade which is surprisingly fancy. Mock-gothic arched windows, some supported by Corinthian columns, others with stone Juliet balconies, and all studded with gargoyles, reflect the origins of this historic London thoroughfare.

This slither of old-world architecture is sandwiched between modern blocks of glass, steel and stone, showcasing London's status as one of the world’s heavyweight financial centres. 

Beautifully boutique

Onefifty is ‘boutique’ in every sense of the word, do not expect lavish communal spaces but compact areas that deliver on current lifestyle trends. This is apparent as soon as you arrive at the cosy reception desk where a friendly face slides across your room key and directs you to the lift. No fuss, no hassle.

Beside reception is ‘The Pantry’ a well-designed space where latecomers and early risers can be satiated and offers every other guest quality drinks and snacks for purchase including champagne and wines. One can consume these at the pantry’s breakfast bar or a seating alcove beside reception. I opted to head straight to one of the 33-luxury apartments assigned to me.

One aspect of Onefifty is its zen-like calm, as if the city beyond has been hermetically sealed behind you, especially when entering the apartment. Located on the 5th floor, my room door opened-out to a lounge and kitchenette, furnished with an elegant midnight-blue velveteen sofa, occasional table and writing desk sitting under one of two windows either end of the apartment.

In terms of the aesthetic, one feels like they have walked-into a cubist painting, with blocks of colour, modernist artwork upon the walls and other angular features. All of which, however, is cleverly softened by the rooms colour palette of deep burgundy offering opulence, a soothing cream offering calm tones and wood floors offering warmth. Overall, there is a sense of exclusivity, even cosiness. The kitchenette has all the utensils for light preparation and an Nespresso machine pumps out quality coffee whenever needed.

Join me in the bedroom

Both the Kitchenette and bathroom neatly divide the lounge area and the bedroom. The Bathroom has a lovely rain and power shower cubicle, decorated with rustic ceramic blue tiles, making one feel like they are floating in the ocean. Crisp white towels and complimentary 'Bamford & Bath' body products and toiletries, completes the experience.  

The comfort of the bed is the most important factor for every hotel room and guest. The quality of your sleep determines so much. No expense has been spared at Onefifty; Egyptian cotton linen and a high-quality mattress with just enough give, sent me to sleep before I had time to set my alarm clock.

Add to this a raft of amenities commensurate with a boutique property of this nature; think, softly-lit bedside lighting, under which USB and plug sockets are easily accessible, a smart TV, safe and plenty of hanging space already draped with your personal robe. And finally, a bedside master switch at your fingertips for ‘lights out’.    

The promotional material sitting on the reception desk declares that the apartments have been ‘Thoughtfully Designed’ and on this occasion, I would absolutely agree, and would go further by saying this entire property is well curated. The overall design theme runs seamlessly throughout the this hotel and Onefifty's location lends itself to many different types of audiences, from those connected to London’s financial institutions who may require longer stays, all the way through to those coming to London for the Marathon.

The communal spaces also include a boutique-sized gym, yoga space and a couple of meeting rooms all waiting to be used. Another recommendation is to view the artwork across the hotel’s walls, my favourite is artist Chris Levine's meditative portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth II, which is situated in-between entrance and reception.

Monuments in all directions

Directly in front of this aparthotel is the skyscraper – 20 Fenchurch Street – or more fondly known as the ‘Walkie Talkie’. Its top floor is the ‘Sky Garden’, an orangerie-style botanical oasis boasting 360-degree views over London, with a duo of bars and restaurants – I highly recommend 'The Sky Garden Sharing Platters', washed down with a couple of cocktails, but book early to get your desired vantage point.

Fenchurch Street is brimming with many dining options, as soon as you step from Onefifty, as are a list of major monuments, representing London's incredibly rich history. Turn right out of the entrance and within minutes one comes across the Grade II listed, Leadenhall Market, with its arcaded splendour which was created by architect Sir Horace Jones in 1881, replacing a poultry market dating back to the 14th century. Today, enjoy a pint in an awarded-winning pub, sip a trendy coffee alfresco or enjoy French bistro-style cuisine alongside city traders and savvy travellers, all under its central octagonal dome.

Turn left from the entrance, and a brisk 15-minute walk will bring you to the Tower of London, home to the priceless Crown Jewels, the historic White Tower with the Line of Kings exhibition, the infamous Bloody Tower, and the legendary Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters). Then walking under ‘Tower Bridge’ take the ‘Tower of London River Tour’ from St Katherine’s Dock for a water-based perspective of the capital.  

During my stay, I wandered the 'Square Mile' looking skyward and admiring an eclectic mix of architecture, viewing ‘The Monument’ a permanent reminder to the great fire of London in 1661 to the New-York-style skyscrapers that pepper the landscape, such as the ‘Cheese Grater’ aka 122 Leadenhall Street or the ‘Gherkin’ aka 30 St. Mary Axe.

One thing is for sure, Onefifty Fenchurch Street is a hidden gem and another welcome addition to London’s hospitality offering. Spread the word!