LONDON
STYLISH , SOPHISTICATED AND EXCLUSIVE , THERE ’ S 5 * LUXURY AND THEN THERE IS …
THE NED
BY SAMANTHA READY
Arriving at The Ned , one midweek afternoon in the latter days of lockdown restrictions , led to two open-mouthed moments . The first , the sheer awe-inspiring first glimpse of the architectural wonder of the former Midland Bank at 27 Poultry ; that was transformed between 2012 and 2017 – inspired by Sir Edwin ‘ Ned ’ Lutyens ’ original masterpiece – into one of London ’ s most sought after 5 * luxury member ’ s clubs-come-hotel . The second , that there was already a queue .
Part of the renown Soho House stable , the great and the good and those in the know , are already members ; enjoying access to basement gyms , secluded eateries , hidden bars , and its acclaimed rooftop . For the rest , it ' s a race to snare a sought-after spot at one of The Ned ’ s go-to restaurants or bars ( hence that afternoon queue ), or , like us , to experience The Ned ’ s show-stopping experience as a hotel guest .
As guests we immediately sidestepped the queue , were relieved of our bags and were whisked through the heavy doors , to be once again caught in open-mouthed wonder . For The Ned is no ordinary hotel lobby ... It is vast , yet intimate ; thriving with activity , yet exclusive ; and quite honestly , architecturally stunning .
Part of the refurbishment here means that 92 colossal verdite columns were retained , as were most of the original solid wooden bank counters . Many now repurposed into clever room dividers offer the first glimpse into how all can be in one domain , yet in utterly different spaces – the key that underpins its membership and exclusivity . It is grand , holds respect to its former incarnation , and offers an interesting mix of traditional textures and fabric – think tassel lampshades and an edge of chintz – and uber contemporary hipster chic . It screams , albeit subtly , sophistication .
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