Have you ever stayed in a hotel which is in two places at once? Inhabit occupies two different buildings in Paddington, West London, one in Queen’s Gardens and another close by on Southwick Street. This unusual arrangement is just one of the hotel’s charming quirks, which continue through the choice of wall art, the designer furniture, and the carefully curated wellness activities.
At first glance, Inhabit has a strong retro vibe: the color schemes and style of furniture transported me back to the 1960s or ‘70s. But when you look closer, everything has a contemporary twist, bringing it bang up to date. The frequent combination of sage green and cream is calming on the mind, putting guests into the perfect frame of mind for a wellness treatment by Gaia, a sound healing or vinyasa flow yoga class, or simply a good night’s sleep.
Guest rooms are flooded with light, and many of the large windows look out onto Paddington’s distinctive stucco townhouses. There is a strong Scandi influence in the decor, but it is mixed with British design. Many of the artworks and objets d’art are by local designers, there are Skandinavisk toiletries, and you can choose a bespoke aromatherapy scent for your room. If you are traveling with a pampered pooch in tow, they are welcome, too, and the open expanse of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens is only a short walk away.
When it comes to eating and drinking, everything you need is on site. The Pantry is always stocked with healthy treats, and restaurant Yeotown serves some of the very best meat-free cuisine in London. The fresh bread and pastries come from Luminary Bakery, a social enterprise which supports women who have experienced homelessness or domestic abuse to rebuild their lives; and the lunch and dinner menus are intended to nourish your mind as well as your body. Start with an appetizer like roasted and candied golden beetroot with fresh orange, rocket, and elderflower dressing, followed by a mouthwatering main of pan fried sea bass with asparagus and pea, lemon, and buckwheat risotto.
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