The hotel is part of the area’s nine-billion-pound regeneration project.
Not long ago, if you told a local that you were staying in Battersea, they’d be baffled. Despite being in central London, it was a derelict district that was best remembered in music and movies, from Pink Floyd’s Animals to The Dark Knight. Now, it has undergone a nine-billion-pound regeneration and is a hip, happening sight – and home to art’otel Battersea.
Battersea Power Station and the surrounding area have been transformed with love and a touch of luxe. The once-lost landmark of London is now home to world-class restaurants, residences and, of course, hotels. And, thanks to buses, boats and its very own London Underground station, it is a superb spot to shop as well as stay.
In 2023, art’otel Battersea opened in swanky style, and was designed by the Spanish artist, Jamie Hayon. Located on Electric Boulevard, it draws inspiration from Battersea Power Station. Packed with personality, the hotel boasts bright, bold colours, and it feels like you are stepping back into the Swinging Sixties. While the check-in is fast and friendly, the lobby is a place to linger, thanks to the soft sofas, and London-inspired artwork as well as books.
Rooms and suites
art’otel Battersea is home to 164 rooms and suites, which are inspired by arts and culture. We check into the Junior Suite, which feels like a one-bedroom flat. Spanning 60 metres square, it can accommodate up to two adults and two children. At the heart of the room is the exciting, entertaining area, which includes a table for six people, sofas and a desk.
The room is bursting with character and charm. The walls boast artwork from Jamie himself, and the shelves are filled with books on art, fashion and history. The vinyl player is one of the coolest touches we’ve ever seen in a hotel room. The collection of records will remind you of your London location: The Beatles’ Abbey Road, Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black and, of course, that Pink Floyd album.
The separate bedroom and bathroom are on the minimalist side, and include a king size bed and rainfall shower. Plus, the staff are on hand to help and send us an extra duvet when it’s cold.
Restaurants and bars
art’otel Battersea is home to a range of restaurants. At the heart of the hotel is the Italian restaurant, TOZI Pizzeria & Cicchetti Bar. Relaxed yet refined, it boasts a bar, banquettes and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of light.
The venue is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is on the simpler side with an a la carte menu that spans eggs, fruits, grains and pastries. Dishes include Eggs Any Style on Sourdough, Heritage Tomatoes and Ricotta on Sourdough, and Pancakes with Seasonal Fruit. Plus, there are freshly squeezed juices and smoothies.
JOIA Battersea showcases Portuguese cuisine, and panoramic views of Battersea. JOIA Rooftop Bar showcases the skyline from a sight that has previously never been seen. Look out for special events, from summer parties to movie screenings. And, if you’re craving another cuisine, there are local as well as international restaurants on your doorstep, from the queue-worthy Dishoom to the first tashas in the UK.
Facilities
art’otel Battersea is home to Mama Wellbeing, which specialises in a holistic approach to your body and mind. The treatments range from facials to massages, and classes range from pilates to yoga. The rooftop infinity pool is the stuff that Insta-dreams are made of – it offers a 360-degree view and a rarely seen angle of Battersea Power Station. It feels like the chimneys are in touching distance.
Now when we tell people we visited Battersea, they are curious – and we can’t stop raving about the regeneration. Come for the fun and funky art’otel Battersea, and stay for cafés, cinemas and a cultural icon.
GO: Visit https://artotellondonbattersea.com for more information.
