A New Chapter in a Storied Legacy
Nestled in the heart of the legendary Savoy Hotel, Gallery emerges as a breathtaking reinvention of an historic space. Designed by acclaimed Studio Shayne Brady, this ambitious project was more than a renovation—it was a transformative reimagining. The aim: to evolve a beloved London landmark into a dynamic, all-day venue that caters to breakfast meetings, leisurely lunches, indulgent afternoon teas, elegant dinners and lively post-theatre cocktails.
“The design brief set a clear challenge: to breathe new life into this grand space while honouring its heritage and ensuring it resonates with today’s sophisticated, cosmopolitan guest,” says Shayne Brady. “And we managed to completely transform the space into an elegant space that works day or night, enveloping guests with traditional hospitality in a contemporary setting.”
A Dual-Purpose Design: Elegant by Day, Opulent by Night
Designing a room that flows seamlessly from light-filled mornings to moody cocktail hours is no small feat. This space needed to accommodate a full spectrum of experiences without losing coherence or charm. A significant challenge was its role as a thoroughfare for guests heading to both the Beaufort Bar and The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay. Rather than resist this dynamic, the design embraced it—introducing a striking marble ‘catwalk’ that invites guests to glide through the space without compromising the atmosphere for seated diners. This feature now forms the energetic spine of the room.
Another key hurdle was working within a live hotel environment, delivering a complete refurbishment in just 12 weeks. The dome skylight, once a source of unpredictable light, was covered (but not concealed) to prevent light from flooding in. In its place, a bespoke lighting system now bathes the room in tailored ambiance—from cozy winter warmth to summer evening shimmer.
The Result: A Space Reborn
The transformation is remarkable. A dramatic catwalk crafted from Nero Marquina and Calacatta white marble now leads guests through the heart of the space, mirroring the drama of the Savoy’s famous entry foyer. A new central bar brings rhythm and conviviality, while heritage-listed walls have been given fresh expression through a custom mural—designed by Studio Shayne Brady and painted by Michael May and Atma Studio—that reinterprets the first-ever dinner dance held in 1912. Silhouettes of legendary figures echo through the design, evoking the spirit of golden-era glamour in a thoroughly modern medium.
Soft silk curtains gently drop as afternoon tea transitions into cocktail hour. Custom chandeliers and floor lights reinterpret classic elegance, while furniture in tones of blush, ochre, and soft pink cocoon guests in luxury. Pale burl timber nods to Art Deco traditions, while colour-drenched columns and wrought iron gates inject a bold, contemporary edge.
The addition of a discreet stage for live music, alongside subtle architectural enhancements, ensures Gallery is a true destination within the hotel.