The Standard London has emerged as one of the most talked-about hospitality destinations in the UK capital, bringing the renowned Standard Hotels brand’s unique blend of style, culture, and irreverence to the heart of King’s Cross. Since its opening, this property has redefined boutique hospitality in London, offering guests an experience that seamlessly blends cutting-edge design, exceptional dining, and a vibrant social scene. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about The Standard London, from its stunning interiors to its acclaimed restaurants and cultural significance.
The History and Transformation of the Building
The Standard London occupies a fascinating piece of architectural history. The building, originally constructed in 1974, served as the Camden Town Hall Annexe, a brutalist structure that was once home to local government offices. This municipal building, with its distinctive concrete facade and angular design, sat largely forgotten for years before The Standard Hotels group recognized its potential for transformation.
The renovation project, led by acclaimed architects Orms and interior designers Shawn Hausman and Archer Humphryes, was a masterful exercise in adaptive reuse. Rather than demolishing the brutalist structure, the design team chose to celebrate its architectural heritage while infusing it with contemporary style and functionality. The transformation took several years and represented a significant investment in the regeneration of the King’s Cross area.
The building’s rebirth as The Standard London in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in London’s hospitality scene. The project preserved the building’s distinctive exterior while completely reimagining its interior spaces. The renovation maintained respect for the original architecture while creating something entirely new and exciting, setting a precedent for thoughtful urban regeneration in London.
Location and the King’s Cross Renaissance
The Standard London’s location in King’s Cross places it at the epicenter of one of London’s most dramatic urban transformations. Once considered a seedy, industrial area, King’s Cross has undergone a remarkable renaissance over the past decade, becoming a vibrant cultural and commercial hub that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The hotel sits on Euston Road, perfectly positioned between the major transport hubs of King’s Cross and St Pancras International stations. This location provides unparalleled connectivity, with direct trains to Europe via the Eurostar, connections to all major UK cities, and six London Underground lines. The proximity to these transport links makes The Standard London an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers.
The surrounding neighborhood offers a rich tapestry of attractions and amenities. Coal Drops Yard, a stunning shopping and dining destination, is just a short walk away. The British Library, one of the world’s greatest research libraries, is practically next door. The area is also home to Central Saint Martins, one of the world’s leading art and design colleges, adding a creative energy to the neighborhood that aligns perfectly with The Standard’s ethos.
Room Categories and Accommodations
The Standard London offers 266 rooms across various categories, each designed to provide a unique experience while maintaining the brand’s signature style. The rooms range from the compact but cleverly designed Cosy Core rooms to the spectacular Bigger Terraced Suites, ensuring options for different budgets and preferences.
The Cosy Core rooms, while smaller in size, maximize every inch of space with intelligent design. These rooms feature The Standard’s signature details including pill-shaped mirrors, custom-designed furniture, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the spaces with natural light. The clever use of materials and colors creates an atmosphere that feels both playful and sophisticated.
At the upper end of the spectrum, the Terraced Suites offer expansive living spaces with private outdoor terraces providing stunning views across London. These suites feature separate living areas, luxurious bathrooms with freestanding tubs, and design elements that wouldn’t look out of place in a contemporary art gallery. The attention to detail in these spaces, from the custom lighting to the carefully curated artwork, creates an environment that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetic
The interior design of The Standard London represents a bold departure from traditional luxury hotel aesthetics. The design team created spaces that feel more like a creative’s living room than a corporate hotel, with an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings, bold color choices, and unexpected artistic touches throughout.
The lobby sets the tone immediately, with its striking red lift doors, terrazzo floors, and an eclectic mix of seating that encourages social interaction. The design philosophy extends throughout the property, with each space having its own distinct personality while maintaining a cohesive overall vision. The use of materials like concrete, timber, and colorful tiles creates textural interest and visual warmth.
Art plays a crucial role in the hotel’s design narrative. The property features an impressive collection of contemporary artworks, including pieces by emerging and established artists. These aren’t mere decorative afterthoughts but integral elements of the design that contribute to the hotel’s creative atmosphere. The art program extends to temporary exhibitions and installations, ensuring the space continues to evolve and surprise returning guests.
Dining Destinations
The Standard London has quickly established itself as a culinary destination, with its restaurants attracting locals and hotel guests alike. The dining options showcase the brand’s commitment to creating spaces that serve as neighborhood gathering places rather than just hotel restaurants.
Double Standard, the hotel’s ground-floor bar, has become a King’s Cross institution. This vibrant space serves creative cocktails and elevated pub food in an atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from casual daytime spot to buzzing evening destination. The bar’s design, with its mix of banquette seating and communal tables, encourages social interaction and embodies The Standard’s community-focused philosophy.
Isla, the hotel’s tenth-floor restaurant, offers a more refined dining experience with spectacular views across London. The menu focuses on seasonal British ingredients with global influences, created by Executive Chef Adam Rawson. The restaurant’s design, with its wraparound windows and sophisticated color palette, creates an atmosphere that’s special occasion-worthy while remaining approachable.
The Library Lounge and Social Spaces
One of The Standard London’s most distinctive features is its Library Lounge, a space that reimagines the traditional hotel lobby as a dynamic social hub. This double-height space features floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, comfortable seating arrangements, and a carefully curated selection of books and magazines that reflect the hotel’s creative spirit.
The Library Lounge operates on an all-day concept, serving coffee and pastries in the morning, light lunches during the day, and transforming into a sophisticated bar in the evening. The space regularly hosts events, from DJ sets to book launches, making it a cultural hub that extends beyond typical hotel programming. The acoustic design of the space allows for both intimate conversations and larger gatherings.
The outdoor terrace adjacent to the Library Lounge provides a rare commodity in central London – outdoor space for relaxation and socializing. This plant-filled oasis offers respite from the urban bustle and has become particularly popular during warmer months. The terrace’s design, with its mix of seating options and subtle lighting, creates different zones for various moods and occasions.
Decimo and the Rooftop Experience
Decimo, The Standard London’s rooftop restaurant on the tenth floor, deserves special mention as one of London’s most exciting dining destinations. Led by Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, the restaurant brings his acclaimed Spanish-Mexican cooking style to a spectacular setting with panoramic views of the London skyline.
The restaurant’s design maximizes the dramatic views while creating an intimate dining atmosphere. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary team at work, adding theater to the dining experience. The menu, which changes seasonally, showcases Sanchez-Iglesias’ innovative approach to combining Spanish and Mexican flavors with British ingredients.
The adjoining rooftop bar offers a more casual experience, with creative cocktails and small plates available. This space has become one of London’s most sought-after sunset spots, with the western-facing aspect providing spectacular views as the sun sets over the city. The outdoor terrace, open during warmer months, adds another dimension to the rooftop experience.
Events and Meeting Spaces
While The Standard London cultivates a rebellious, non-corporate image, it offers sophisticated events and meeting spaces that challenge conventional business hospitality. The hotel features several flexible spaces that can accommodate everything from intimate board meetings to large-scale parties and cultural events.
The Sweeties room, with its bold pink color scheme and unique design elements, offers a meeting space that stimulates creativity and breaks away from the mundane conference room aesthetic. This space has hosted everything from fashion shoots to think tank sessions, proving that serious business can happen in playful environments.
The hotel’s approach to events extends beyond traditional corporate gatherings. The Standard London regularly hosts cultural events, from art exhibitions to music performances, that blur the lines between hotel and cultural venue. This programming has helped establish the property as more than just accommodation, but as an active participant in London’s cultural scene.
Wellness and Fitness Facilities
The Standard London takes a refreshingly unpretentious approach to wellness, offering facilities that prioritize functionality and accessibility over ostentatious luxury. The gym, while compact, is well-equipped with modern equipment and offers everything needed for maintaining fitness routines while traveling.
The hotel’s approach to wellness extends beyond traditional gym facilities. The design of the entire property, with its emphasis on natural light, social spaces, and connection to the neighborhood, promotes a holistic sense of wellbeing. The various dining options include health-conscious choices, and the proximity to green spaces like Regent’s Park encourages outdoor activity.
Future plans for wellness facilities have been discussed, with the potential for additional amenities that would align with The Standard’s unconventional approach. These might include innovative fitness concepts or partnerships with local wellness providers, maintaining the brand’s commitment to doing things differently.
Service Philosophy and Guest Experience
The Standard London’s service philosophy represents a deliberate departure from traditional luxury hotel standards. The staff, dressed in custom uniforms that feel more fashion-forward than formal, embody the brand’s approachable yet professional ethos. The service style is warm, knowledgeable, and refreshingly unpretentious.
Staff members are encouraged to be themselves rather than following rigid scripts, creating genuine interactions that enhance the guest experience. This approach extends from the front desk to the restaurants and bars, where staff members often develop relationships with regular guests and locals who frequent the public spaces.
The hotel’s approach to technology enhances rather than replaces human interaction. Mobile check-in options and keyless entry provide convenience for those who want it, while maintaining traditional service touchpoints for guests who prefer personal interaction. This balanced approach reflects an understanding of diverse guest preferences in the modern hospitality landscape.
Cultural Impact and Community Integration
Since opening, The Standard London has had a significant impact on the King’s Cross neighborhood and London’s broader cultural landscape. The hotel has successfully positioned itself as more than just accommodation, becoming a gathering place for locals and a destination in its own right.
The property’s events programming has contributed to the area’s cultural vitality. From hosting art exhibitions to partnering with local organizations for community events, The Standard London has integrated itself into the fabric of the neighborhood. This approach has helped change perceptions of what a hotel can be in an urban context.
The hotel’s influence extends to London’s hospitality scene more broadly. Its success has demonstrated that there’s appetite for hotels that break conventional molds, inspiring other properties to take more risks with design, programming, and service approaches. The Standard London has helped raise the bar for boutique hospitality in the city.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Standard London has implemented various sustainability initiatives that align with growing environmental consciousness in the hospitality industry. The adaptive reuse of the existing building rather than demolition and new construction represented a significant environmental choice, preserving embodied energy and reducing construction waste.
Operational sustainability measures include energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and partnerships with local suppliers to reduce transportation emissions. The restaurants prioritize seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients where possible, and the bars have implemented programs to reduce single-use plastics and minimize waste.
The hotel’s urban location and excellent public transport connections encourage guests to explore London without relying on private vehicles. The property provides information about public transport options and walking routes, promoting sustainable tourism practices. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to responsible hospitality that resonates with environmentally conscious travelers.
Guest Reviews and Feedback
Guest feedback for The Standard London consistently highlights several key strengths while also noting areas that might not suit all travelers. The design and atmosphere receive universal praise, with guests appreciating the creative energy and unique aesthetic that sets the property apart from more conventional hotels.
The dining options, particularly Decimo and the Library Lounge, receive exceptional reviews for both food quality and atmosphere. Many guests note that these spaces attract a stylish local crowd, creating an authentic London experience rather than a tourist-focused environment. The rooftop views are consistently mentioned as a highlight.
Some guests note that the edgy, youth-oriented vibe might not appeal to those seeking traditional luxury or business hotels. The smaller room categories, while cleverly designed, may feel cramped for guests accustomed to more spacious accommodations. However, most reviews suggest that the overall experience compensates for any spatial limitations.
Comparison with Other London Hotels
The Standard London occupies a unique position in London’s competitive hotel landscape. Unlike traditional luxury hotels in Mayfair or Knightsbridge, it offers a more contemporary, accessible version of boutique hospitality. The pricing, while not budget, provides value considering the location, design, and dining options.
Compared to other boutique hotels in London, The Standard stands out for its scale and ambition. While many boutique properties focus on intimate experiences, The Standard London operates on a larger scale while maintaining personality and attention to detail. This combination of boutique sensibility with larger hotel amenities creates a unique proposition.
The hotel’s integration of public spaces that attract locals distinguishes it from properties that feel separated from their neighborhoods. This approach aligns more with international hospitality trends seen in cities like New York and Copenhagen, bringing a fresh perspective to London’s hotel scene.
Booking Tips and Best Practices
When booking The Standard London, several strategies can enhance your experience and value. Booking directly through the hotel’s website often provides the best rates and flexibility, with the added benefit of loyalty program points for frequent Standard guests. The hotel occasionally offers packages that include dining credits or other perks.
Room selection requires balancing budget with space needs. While the Cosy Core rooms offer great value and style, guests planning longer stays or requiring work space might prefer larger categories. The Terraced Suites, while pricier, offer exceptional value for special occasions or when the outdoor space can be fully utilized.
Timing visits can significantly impact the experience. Weekdays often offer better rates and a more local atmosphere in the public spaces. However, weekends bring a vibrant energy to the bars and restaurants. The rooftop spaces are particularly special during summer months, though booking for Decimo requires advance planning due to high demand.
Future Developments and Evolution
The Standard London continues to evolve, with plans for enhancing facilities and programming. While specific details remain under wraps, the hotel’s management has indicated commitment to maintaining the property’s position at the forefront of London hospitality innovation. Potential developments might include expansion of wellness facilities, additional dining concepts, or enhanced cultural programming.
The success of the King’s Cross location has also sparked speculation about additional Standard properties in London, though no concrete plans have been announced. The hotel’s role in the continuing regeneration of King’s Cross remains significant. As the neighborhood continues to develop, with new residential, commercial, and cultural projects, The Standard London is well-positioned to benefit from and contribute to the area’s growth.
FAQs
Where is The Standard, London located?
The hotel is located at 10 Argyle Street, King’s Cross, London WC1H 8EG. It sits directly opposite King’s Cross and St Pancras stations, making it extremely convenient for travel within London and to international destinations like Paris via the Eurostar.
What are the room options at The Standard, London?
The hotel offers a range of 266 rooms, varying from Cosy Core rooms (with no windows, perfect for short stays) to Junior Suites and the famous Suite Terrace rooms that come with private outdoor bathtubs and views of St. Pancras. Each room features retro-inspired interiors, plush beds, stocked minibars, and modern amenities.
Is The Standard, London family-friendly?
Yes. The hotel welcomes families, and some rooms are large enough to accommodate extra beds. However, it is more renowned for being a trendy, adult-friendly destination popular with creatives, couples, and groups of friends.
Does the hotel have a rooftop?
Yes, The Standard, London has a rooftop space that is used for seasonal events, parties, and private gatherings. Guests at Decimo and Sweeties can enjoy panoramic views of London’s skyline from the upper levels.
In Summary
The Standard London represents a bold reimagining of what a London hotel can be. By combining irreverent design, exceptional dining, and a community-focused approach, it has created something genuinely new in the city’s hospitality landscape. The property succeeds in being both a destination for travelers and a gathering place for Londoners, breaking down traditional barriers between hotels and their neighborhoods.
For visitors seeking a conventional luxury hotel experience, The Standard London might feel too edgy or unconventional. However, for those looking to experience contemporary London culture, appreciate innovative design, and enjoy exceptional food and drink in stylish settings, it offers an unmatched experience. The hotel captures the creative energy of modern London while providing all the comforts expected from an international hospitality brand.
As London’s hospitality scene continues to evolve, The Standard London stands as a benchmark for innovation and creativity. Its success demonstrates that hotels can be more than just places to sleep – they can be cultural hubs, dining destinations, and community gathering spaces. Whether you’re a design enthusiast, food lover, or simply someone who appreciates experiences that challenge conventions, The Standard London offers something special.
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