Located on London’s iconic music street, where scores of famed British musicians including the Rolling Stones and Queen made recordings at the independent studios and writing rooms that once lined the curb, Chateau Denmark is unquestionably positioned on one of The Big Smoke’s most renowned roads. The Sex Pistols resided and recorded at No. 6, and prior to finding fame, David Bowie lived on the street in his converted ambulance so he could meet music industry insiders.
Today, Denmark Street is occupied by guitar shops and eclectic bars, and is home to a hedonistic hotel, set across 16 Grade II-listed buildings where some of the most well-known music legends once hung out. Welcome to Chateau Denmark.
Embodying rock’s rebellious spirit is rooted in Chateau Denmark’s very essence, and seeps into the soul of its 55 session rooms and apartments – many of which are hidden behind inconspicuous entrances with a feast for the senses waiting to unfold, evident the moment the butler unlocked the door to my two-bedroom apartment with contagious excitement, as he enquired if I’d like a cocktail from the bar.
Butlers are appointed to do much more than simply escort guests to dwellings. They wax lyrical about the history of the area and recommend things to do, see and eat – making reservations if required. They’re available 24/7 via text and can play bartender through to the early hours. They’ll also gladly run errands, or pick up breakfast from nearby restaurants to enjoy from the comfort of your dining room or duvet.
In a league of its own, the hotel serves temptation in spades, notable by the neon sign that read, “Sinning” above the door. Punk, rock and psychedelic vibes define the design concept, imagined by Knightsbridge’s award-winning interiors aficionados, Taylor Howes.
Each abode is styled to its own eclectic rhythm. Expect walls festooned with lashings of red, animal print and tartan, and gothic-inspired features that justly make a fearless statement. Huge cloud-like beds with custom headboards are swathed in luxurious textiles that beckon to be touched beneath muted lighting. Boudoir-style bathrooms bedecked in lavish marble and glossy-black tiles boast extravagant fireplaces. Spacious roll-top tubs can be filled with ice and bottles of bubbly, so I was informed.
A strong music vibe is evident throughout, particularly in the sound-proofed entertaining space – a music enthusiast’s paradise – with its professional sound system irrefutably encouraging tracks be turned up.
And then there is the bar. Given Chateau Denmark’s revelling influences, it’s unsurprising that each abode has its own heavily stocked bar with dozens of full-sized bottles, plus wine fridges full of vintages gathered from across the globe – imaginably the jewel in the crown for many occupants.
While you may be on your honeymoon, you’ll be excused for considering hosting a soiree in your room – a notion Chateau Denmark unquestionably supports.
While the temptation is to stay within the luxurious hideaway, stray you must, even if it’s just to the hotel’s cocktail lounge, Thirteen, located on the corner of Denmark Street. A sensory overload (of course), Thirteen captures the spirit of the neighbourhood through its decadent design and intoxicating ambiance. The vibe here is intimate. Even on a busy night, it somehow manages to feel as if you’re in a bubble of your own. Plush furnishings and on-point mood lighting further set the tone, while a fabulously flamboyant drinks menu hits all of the high notes – try the Bittersweet Symphony or the Morning Fury (inspired by a Sex Pistols documentary).
Paying homage to culinary creativity, a Japanese-inspired menu features colourful sushi and sashimi dishes delivered as edible works of art, plus other small bites that tantalise the tastebuds. While the food is exquisite, at Thirteen it’s all about the cocktails, good times and the rhythm of your own drum.
Upon checking out and having one last saunter around my apartment, envisioning the illustrious list of who’s who passing through, I thought to myself with a smile, “if only these walls could talk.”
Editor’s Picks | Date Night Attire…
Jumpsuit, Rivet Utility. Bag, Stella McCartney, Earrings, Oscar de la Renta at Net-A-Porter. Gloss Bomb in Hot Cherry Sheer Red, Fenty Beauty. Vanille Fatale EDP, Tom Ford. Ring, Pacharee. Shoes, Pīferi.
Hotel images courtesy of Chateau Denmark.
Outfit images courtesy of brands.
