Nobu酒店，伦敦 / Ben Adams Architects

Standing as a stunning juxtaposition to the red-brick buildings and warehouses that define the Shoreditch aesthetic, the hotel’s structure is a contemporary tapestry of glass, concrete, timber, and bronze, flanked by cantilevered steel beams pointing east in homage to the hotel’s Asian roots. And it is this marrying of the neighborhood’s industrial identity with a distinct Japanese narrative that also characterizes the interior design of the property.

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.

A lesson in textural interplay, traditional patchwork and Asian design pieces contrast with polished gray concrete, patinated metal, and dark stone. A deconstructed geometric pattern based on sumi-e—an ink painting technique central to East Asian art and philosophy—appears throughout the hotel, while white minimalist bathrooms play host to statement brass ceramic basins. In guestrooms, a moving wall of artwork by local talent Sichi acts as a sliding window screen.

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.