Grand Stays: meet some of The Set’s most iconic hotels
From historic grandeur to contemporary masterpieces, each of these landmark properties – four of The Set’s carefully curated members – is a destination in itself, offering cultural and architectural richness alongside exquisite comfort.
Hotel Café Royal, London
Standing the test of time as one of London’s truly distinctive addresses, with a name that recalls a heyday of rock ‘n’ roll glamour, Hotel Café Royal promises a stay steeped in urban folklore. Poised where Mayfair, Soho and St James’s meet, the hotel comprises three historic buildings, gloriously united by David Chipperfield Architects into a Grade II-listed modern grand hotel. Café Royal has long been a haunt for history’s bon vivants – it’s where Oscar Wilde made himself well at home holding court – and music royalty from Mick Jagger and Lou Reed to David Bowie, who officially retired his Ziggy Stardust alter-ego here.
This Regent Street mainstay saw history being made when the Marquess of Queensbury put in writing the official rules for boxing, and was once a prestigious venue for black tie dinner and boxing events set beneath an immense chandelier. Today, a 350-kg Murano glass chandelier takes centre stage in the Art Deco-adorned lobby, the vision of Piero Lissoni. The original venue of Chinawhite, London’s VIP nightclub frequented by the likes of Kate Moss and friends, is now reborn as subterranean spa Akasha, its peaceful lap pool, therapy rooms and Hamman an utterly serene contrast to the energy of Piccadilly Circus above.
Understated, beautifully designed rooms and suites offer a similar retreat from the frenetic while fascinating Theatreland on Hotel Café Royal’s doorstep. Whisperingly quiet, each contemporary space pays homage to its specific place in the building, with architectural features such as Portland stone walls. Crowning the sixth floor, a Three Bedroom Dome Penthouse with panoramic views stretching as far as Big Ben. If the generations of legends passing through the doors didn’t already carry enough weight, the Carrara marble bathrooms lend it a fun reputation as London’s heaviest hotel. Unique, elegant, and thoroughly cosmopolitan, expect a warm and inviting stay, with an irreverent nod to the pomp you might expect from such a storied space.
The Siam, Bangkok
On the tranquil bank of the Chao Phraya River, beyond the pulse of Bangkok’s urban sprawl – yet only a private water limousine ride away if curiosity takes hold – The Siam is a sanctuary of style and a promise of inimitable moments. Under the creative direction of Thai pop star Krissada Sukosol Clapp, this boutique marvel has effortlessly claimed its space as a sophisticated playground for aesthetes. Krissada’s appreciation for the arts is his DNA, being the son of ‘singing hotelier’ Khun Kamala Sukosol – an individual with such unforgettable presence that she inspires a character in Season 3 of The White Lotus.
Designer Bill Bensley smartly evokes a bygone Bangkok, balancing the timeless grace of traditional Thai architecture with a fin-de-siècle Paris allure. This monochromatic wonder, set over three acres of lush gardens, connects to Thailand’s cultural heart through thoughtfully placed local crafts and art. Continuing the black and white motif, moving through the interiors feels cinematic, like gaining exclusive access to a private museum yet feeling perfectly at home. Filled with natural light, priceless antiquities, and retro touches – remember walkmans? – guests are stirred with a sense of both nostalgia and novelty.
Each of The Siam’s 39 suites and villas gives a fresh take on bespoke luxury, with high ceilings and spa-like bathrooms adding to the feeling of personal space. Opt for a garden suite that opens out to lush foliage, or unwind in a secluded villa with a private courtyard and plunge pool. While away some time in the library, listen to jazz records in the Vinyl Room, or experience Sodashi wellness rituals at the Opium Spa. Refine your form with an expert trainer at the Muay Thai gym, dine at the traditional teakwood Story House, and sip sunset cocktails at the riverfront bar. Those so inclined can even return home with Sak Yant ink from the on-site tattoo studio.
The Middle House, Shanghai
A pocket of calm within the eclectic Jing-an District, The Middle House naturally attracts a cool crowd while remaining blissfully uncrowded. Piero Lissoni’s chic interiors, showcasing the Milanese designer’s trademark touch of a Murano chandelier at the hotel’s entrance, integrate Shanghai’s cosmopolitan cool with Italian glamour and proportion. With The House Collective’s signature confident design approach, rooms feature European-style furniture, dark wood floors, and complimentary yoga mats and weights that invite a seamless stay where you can live as you do at home. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows frame the spectacular cityscape.
Soulfully individual, the hotel positions itself at a crossroads between East and West, Lissoni complementing his luxurious minimalism with carved wooden lattice screens, emerald-toned ceramic tiles imprinted with bamboo, and curated works by Chinese artists. The expansive space communicates a boutique feel with a quiet sense of drama, without ever taking itself too seriously. The hotel’s two restaurants have fun with discerning palates, offering authentic Cantonese, Shanghainese and Sichuan cuisine at Sui Tang Li, and a taste of la dolce vita at Frasca, where sommeliers share an impressive knowledge of wine.
The Middle House is laser-focused on exceeding the expectations of its guests. Alongside the 33-metre swimming pool and healing treatments offered at Mi Xun Spa, the hotel employs World Trainer fitness concierges, available to customise workouts for guests. Concierges truly hold the keys to the city, organising bespoke tours to hidden galleries and tucked-away gardens to provide a unique perspective on Shanghai. A profoundly cultured stay that leaves a lasting impression on even the most sophisticated global citizens.
Ultima Grand Villa Geneva
Even in a city synonymous with discretion, Ultima Grand Villa Geneva emerges as a remarkably private Alpine residence. Available for private rental only, and sleeping up to 18 guests, this three-storey masterpiece is all soaring ceilings and natural light – an idyllic summer getaway set in lush, landscaped gardens beside the picturesque Lake Geneva. This ultra-modern space with sleek cubist lines tells an elegant design narrative, celebrating the art of indoor/outdoor living while allowing the guest to shape their own experience.
The comfortable cinema is made for family movie and popcorn nights, while foodies will delight in the dedicated teppanyaki dining space, wine cellar, and Michelin-trained chef on-hand to curate tailored gastronomic evenings. Wellness seekers will be at home drifting between the sauna, Hammam, and two dreamy infinity pools, while gym bunnies challenge themselves in the fitness centre. The villa even offers the services of a psychotherapist for those wishing to experience a more profound journey of inner discovery.
If you can peel yourself away from enjoying the Swiss sunshine in your sprawling and secluded garden, venture into town for something a little different. From your private white-marble garage – with a glass room to display your most prized car – the heart of the city is just a 20-minute drive away. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of some of the world’s most renowned watchmakers or experience the unique thrill of bidding at a prestigious auction house. Explore Lavaux’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage vineyards or charter a private boat for a picnic with a breathtaking snow-capped backdrop.
Discover more grand stays with The Set.
