LUXURY

Bespoke luxury in Belgravia
The Halkin
In London, you’re spoilt for choice. Some of the world’s most famous hotel chains have
their flagship properties here, and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the variety on offer.
Some of London’s best-kept secrets can be found down discreet side streets in the
more exclusive districts. The Halkin is a superb example as Philip Tetley-Jones recently
found out.
Tucked down Halkin Street, a few minutes stroll from
Hyde Park Corner, the Halkin doesn’t go out of its way to
wow you from the street. The Georgian style façade of
weathered bricks, Portland stone and arching windows
gives little away. But appearances can be misleading,
because this is one of those establishments favoured by
those in the know. Without dropping any names, it’s a
fact that certain supermodels and international tycoons
favour the Halkin as their London base. With just 41
rooms and suites, it offers all the sophistication of much
larger establishments, but with an intimate style of
personal service that can’t be easily replicated in more
grandiose environments.
Developed by the Ong family, who are also behind the
legendary COMO resorts in Asia, the Halkin displays a
captivating blend of European and Asian influences.
Staff wear a stylish uniform, designed by Armani; and
Mrs Ong personally chose the oriental antiques that
decorate public spaces. There’s a sense that every
detail has been subjected to careful deliberation and
unwavering quality standards. To give just one example,
the bed linen is 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton,
giving a natural but distinctly luxurious touch to your
night’s sleep.
Our Halkin experience began with a warmly personal
greeting at check-in and the offer of complimentary fruit
delivered to our room. The room itself was decorated in
soothing tones of pale cream fabrics and honey-gold
marble, with warm wood panelling adding a classic
touch to the surroundings. In-room entertainment
was delivered via 36” flat screen Sony Bravia TV, with
wireless Internet to hook you up to the Web.
The bathroom was a delight to the eyes – and
most of the other senses as well. It’s a generously
proportioned, all-marble environment with a deep
tub, separate walk-in shower, anti-mist mirrors and
generous supplies of COMO Shambhala toiletries.
These are exclusive to the COMO group and provide a
subtle reminder of the health-giving philosophy that
underlies the hotel’s hospitality.
As always, it was the extra touches that captured the
essence of 5-star luxury. Returning from late night
drinks at the trendy Met Bar (another COMO property),
we noticed that lights had been dimmed in our room
and slippers had been placed on a small mat by the
bedside. No need to rummage in the wardrobe!
Another example: on requesting laundry service for
some business shirts, these were returned the same
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