Legendary London hotel reveals its extravagant renovation

Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails.

The Dorchester, situated in London's prestigious Mayfair, has just revealed an elegant new ground floor with two chic bars, a refreshed exterior, and a redesigned lobby. This update marks part of the hotel’s most ambitious overhaul in over three decades.

The hotel’s Promenade lobby has been reimagined by renowned designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, drawing inspiration from the beauty of the British countryside.

Soft hues of sage green, pink, and yellow complement a striking space accented with dark columns and gold-leaf details. The beloved afternoon tea service will return to The Promenade on January 23.

Dining and beverages at The Dorchester

At the far end of The Promenade, the newly opened Artists' Bar celebrates British artists in an opulent setting, with Liberace's iconic mirrored piano as the centerpiece.

Champagne and fresh seafood are the mainstays here, with six signature cocktails inspired by the bar’s collection of exceptional art pieces.

The Stamp Duty cocktail combines Doorly's Barbados rum, Drambuie, Oloroso sherry, lime, and a homemade English breakfast tea butter syrup. The drink draws inspiration from Ann Carrington’s silhouette of Queen Elizabeth II crafted from mother-of-pearl buttons, reminiscent of the royal postage stamp.

Vesper Bar now occupies the former space of The Bar at The Dorchester. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, it channels the glamour and charm of the 1930s—a period where decorum was revered but revelry was never far behind, according to the hotel’s press release.

James Bond-inspired ties

Vesper Bar features a striking 1930s-style palladium-leaf ceiling, luxurious green and blue velvet seating, and a newly added terrace with sweeping views of Hyde Park.

The bar’s name pays homage to The Dorchester’s connection to James Bond. Ian Fleming, the creator of the famous spy, frequented the hotel in the 1940s, where he also invented the Vesper Martini, as noted by The Dorchester.

Opened in 1931, The Dorchester was the first hotel in the world built using reinforced concrete. Over the years, it has become a favored destination for celebrities, royalty, and global dignitaries.

The renovation of the ground floor will be followed by the unveiling of newly designed rooms and suites, which are set to launch in March.