In contrast to the stately, serious milieus at many 5-Star hotels, the Ham Yard Hotel in London’s Soho neighborhood feels happy, even joyous. Indeed, it’s hard not to smile while walking through the property, which includes 91 bedrooms and suites, 24 apartments, and a number of retail and F&B options, to say nothing of a verdant central garden with mature oak trees and a large bronze sculpture by Tony Cragg. Vibrant pendant lights made of old plastic bottles and raffia hanging from colorful wires enliven the gray walls and old marble mirrors in the bar just off the reception area, while tufted side chairs covered in hot pink fabric pop against the dark, floral-patterned sofas and natural marble tables. “I’d used about every other color elsewhere,” says Kit Kemp.
The patterns are just as boisterous. In the restaurant, a graphic fabric wallcovering by Kemp is the backdrop for an eclectic collection of art that includes a 12-foot-tall oil painting by Joe Fan, contemporary pieces by Bruce McLean, and framed costume designs from the Paris Opera. “You’d think (the wallcovering) is quite busy, but when you put it up, it backs away from you,” Kemp says.
The color is even more intense in the lower-level bowling alley—a design first for Kemp, who covered the lane walls and columns in a cinnamon-colored felt punctuated by a pair of 20-foot-long pieces by Howard Hodgkin. Along one wall, rows of vintage bowling shoes in Perspex boxes feels like a modern art installation.
Meanwhile, in the subdued library, a limestone fireplace mantel creates a handsome gathering spot outfitted with a fabric wallcovering and embroidered curtains—all designed by Kemp. “I wanted one room to look calmer and more conservative, so you feel [as though you’ve arrived],” she says. “But at the same time, it’s very English and it feels tailored.” As do the individually decorated, ever-evolving guestrooms. In a welcoming two-bedroom suite on the top floor, a tactile, blue-hued wallcovering is accented by sumptuous rugs, funky patterned upholstery, and original artwork. Steps away is the partially covered rooftop terrace with a green roof, olive and apple trees, a vegetable garden, and beehives. “It’s a beautiful space that only gets better and better,” Kemp says.
Ham Yard Hotel’s rooftop garden offers views of London’s skyline
Colorful furniture contrasts inviting blue walls in a suite
Colorful pendant lights made of old plastic bottles and raffia are a whimsical addition to the bar
