The rebirth of a London landmark: The OWO and Raffles London open 2023
For the first time since its conception in 1906, Britain’s iconic Old War Office is opening its doors to the public as The OWO: an extraordinary new destination that is redefining Whitehall. The OWO will also feature 85 Residences by Raffles and is set to be a new culinary district for London, with the debut of nine restaurants and three bars, including a spectacular rooftop with panoramic views across St James’s Park, The Mall and on to Buckingham Palace.
Over the past eight years, Britain’s Old War Office has been thoughtfully restored to its former glory. The family-run Hinduja Group, at the helm of the redevelopment, has been passionately committed to the revival of its heritage features. With the help of hundreds of artisans, historic interior elements have been restored, including delicate hand-laid mosaic floors, oak paneling, glittering chandeliers, and a magnificent marble staircase.
From the dazzling beauty of the grand staircase, elegantly wrapped around a two-story chandelier, to the mosaic-tiled floors, Raffles London pays homage to the building’s history while providing a sense of timeless luxury. The hotel and its 120 rooms and suites were the vision of famed designer, the late Thierry Despont, who transformed landmark buildings such as the Statue of Liberty.
The most historically significant areas of the building are the Heritage Suites, former offices of influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and Sir Richard Haldane. A number of these will be available for exclusive reservations as “The Whitehall Wing.” This six-bedroom suite will occupy the west wing of the building and can accommodate up to 12 guests—one of the largest luxury hotel wings available in London.
The Guerlain Spa at Raffles London is set to be one of the largest luxury hotel spas in the capital, spanning 27,000 square feet over four floors, with a spectacular swimming pool, nine exquisitely designed treatment suites, an extensive gym and L’Atelier Guerlain. Movement, recovery and nutrition expert Pillar Wellbeing will enable members to reach their full potential through personalized, innovative training and nutrition.
In addition to restaurants by Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London, The OWO will feature four independent restaurants including Café Lapérouse, Paper Moon, Langosteria and a rooftop restaurant and ground-floor saké bar by Creative Restaurant Group.
>> raffles.com/london
>> Booth F1052
