Contrasting the red-brick buildings and converted warehouses in East London, Nobu Hotel Shoreditch is a contemporary tapestry of glass, concrete, steel, timber, and bronze. Initially designed by Ron Arad and completed by Ben Adams, the cantilevered steel beams of the five-storey building give the impression of a sleek mega-yacht in full sail. Inside, local practice Studio Mica has layered a calm Japanese aesthetic over the concrete, glass fibre and steel.
As an extension of the Nobu Group, founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor and director Robert De Niro, and Hollywood producer Meir Teper, it comes as no surprise that the hotel’s culinary offerings take center stage. And yet the eponymous restaurant and bar is just one aspect of Nobu Hotel Shoreditch’s bold concept—which also incorporates a pocket garden; private dining and event spaces; a luxury spa and wellness center.
Each of the 148 rooms features a quiet palette of slatted shoji screens, stylised watercolor walls by Hackney-based artist Sichi, and herringboned headboards, alongside bathrooms which include custom-designed basins by Laufen.
Upon entering through the grand, double-height doors, guests are greeted by a soothing palette of grays, golds, and blues in the Fireside Lobby Lounge and Bar, which serves small bites and handcrafted cocktails in an informal setting. A sweeping, back-lit staircase leads to the spectacular subterranean restaurant and bar—complete with a chef’s table, sushi counter, and an outdoor courtyard—where Chef Nobu’s iconic Japanese-Peruvian cuisine pulls in star-studded crowds. As well as Nobu classics, the restaurant offers unique dishes inspired by the creativity and vibrancy of the local area, while the bar boasts an exquisite collection of Japanese whisky and sake.
For the ultimate urban escape, Nobu Hotel Shoreditch will debut its spa and wellness center in January 2018. The Nobu Spa will feature steam room facilities and three treatment rooms, offering a range of bespoke, luxury treatments in collaboration with the renowned Spanish skincare brand Natura Bissé. Signature treatments include Nobu Zen, which incorporates stretching and massage techniques to balance the body and harmonize the mind, as well as traditional Shiatsu rituals. For those looking for a more physically demanding wellness experience, the 24-hour fitness center offers state-of-the-art Artis by Technogym equipment and personal training sessions.
Set in the heart of the pulse-quickening Shoreditch neighborhood, Nobu Hotel Shoreditch is surrounded by hip drinking dens, eclectic restaurants, and oh-so-cool concept stores and yet London’s financial district is just a stone’s throw away.
all images courtesy of Design Hotels