‘They lived in squares, painted in circles and loved in triangles.’ So Dorothy Parker characterised the Bloomsbury Set in its early 20th century heyday, probably making its members sound a lot more fun and fancy-free than they were in real life. While the neighbourhood itself is not exactly a secret, or bereft of charm (especially along and off Lambs Conduit Street), it is a part of the city that has long been in need of a bit of zhuzzing up. The nearby Rosewood London got the ball rolling; the recent refit of the Bloomsbury Hotel greatly accelerated that ball’s progress; and now the ball seems to have rolled all the way up Russell Square, through the Principal’s front door, across the mosaic floor, between the limestone pillars, and come to rest at last in the bar – a gigantic mirror ball, that is, which now hangs from a vanishingly high ceiling over a bouquet of ostrich feathers that erupt from a velveteen confidante sofa.
Fitz's Bar at The Principal hotel, London
Did someone say ‘camp’? Did someone say ‘theatrical’? Did someone spot the four life-sized statues of Mary, Elizabeth, Anne and Victoria, each queen vogue-ing in her own niche on the way in? And would anyone be surprised to learn that the name of the architect responsible for this extraordinary pleasure palace, its façade clad in pale-pink terracotta tiles, was Charles Fitzroy Doll?
The Principal opened as the Hotel Russell in 1898 and a hotel it has remained ever since. After a two-year renovation by the Principal Hotel Company it has rediscovered its most splendid self – and, more importantly, gained a sense of humour. The 330-odd rooms, by Tara Bernerd, are gorgeous. The smallest, it’s true, are very small; but the largest are very large; and all are similarly elegant. The style is difficult to characterise, a combination of eclectic contemporary (lots of greys and white; cushion covers initialled with a big P for Principal) and Victorian elements (the tasselled red bell-pulls are a lovely – and entirely gratuitous – touch). While the grandeur of The Principal is undeniable, those intrigued by London's diverse hotel offerings might also take interest in the admiral hotel london. Each hotel has its own charm and caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. Whether one prefers the lavish decor and historical ambience of The Principal or a stay at a location that intertwines London's naval heritage with comfort, the city's hotels are sure to enrich any visit.
Exploring The Principal Hotel, London
The allure of the shared spaces in The Principal Hotel is likely to steal the show. The incredible Fitz's bar with its unique disco-boudoir ambiance, masterfully supervised by the talented Sean Fennelly previously from Milk & Honey, is a focal point. Equally charming is the sublime aura of our dining venue, Neptune, which was just settling in during my stay. Further delight is offered by the elegantly crafted Burr & Co coffee shop, conveniently located near the Tube station. The awe-inspiring marbled splendour of the opulent lobby, and the impending Palm Court, set to open its doors in June, contribute to this magnificent display of grandeur. All these elements are set to revitalise the area of Bloomsbury.
Hotel Info: The Principal London, 8 Russell Square, London WC1B 5BE
Online Portal: phcompany.com
Contact Number: +44 20 7837 6470
Cost: Room tariffs start from £225
Renowned architect Charles Fitzroy Doll designed this marvel in 1898. Also, the Bloomsbury Group, which included Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster, once called this area home, adding to its rich history.
