The 5-star Prince Akatoki Hotel can be found in a prime location in London, right in the heart of the West End. The hotel is the first property to be launched in the capital city from the Prince Akatoki London, which is part of the Asia Pacific hotel management group StayWell. The London location is the first 5-star Akatoki hotel worldwide and is part of the brand’s expansion into key global gateway cities.
The hotel has made its home in the 82-room former Arch Hotel, and brings Japanese design and hospitality ideals to the West. Following a multi-million pound refurbishment, the hotel now blends strong design, attention to detail, natural and sensory elements, making the hotel a breath of fresh air for those looking for accommodation in London.
The name Akatoki comes from an ancient Japanese word for sunrise. It represents the feeling you get when you wake up relaxed, rejuvenated and ready for the endless possibilities of the day ahead. This is exactly what the project team working on the hotel have endeavoured to deliver through their designs and expertise.
The stunning interior design was created by B3; the architectural interior design company which specialises in hospitality. B3 approached Foundry to create the lighting scheme to support their work; recognising Foundry’s enviable reputation within the hospitality sector.
Guests are immediately greeted by the light and airy interior featuring washed natural timber, complemented by striking pieces of art and Japanese furniture. It is a clean, crisp, calming space; a sanctuary and an escape from the hustle and bustle of central London. To enhance this, Foundry have used concealed light sources throughout, integrating them into the fabric of the building. Custom fixtures have been designed by Foundry, which are integrated into the tables to deliver a personal light source to those using the space.
Foundry also created the simple, yet dynamic lighting scheme in the restaurant. The lighting needed to transition from bright and crisp in the day, to sensual, warm and inviting at night. Warm dim technology has been used by Foundry to achieve this. Simple pools of light are located on the tables, while the feature wall behind the sushi counter is illuminated. Concealed lighting around the banquet seating emphasises the stylish and warm wood panelling.
The hotel boasts a dual purpose space which serves as the whiskey lounge and the site for tea ceremonies. The lighting scheme in this area features a similar approach to the restaurant, but with much more detailing. Foundry has used a magnetic track, integrated into the wooden slatted ceiling to pick out the tables and bars. The lighting around the space’s perimeter provides flashes of light to the fabric panels. Another stunning detail is the concealed drinks displays folded into hidden pockets, with tunable white light to illuminate the bottles.
The Prince Akatoki is already receiving rave reviews and it is clear to see why.
