Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London is the more discreet, modern and intimate sister property to the iconic Hyde Park outpost. Sitting at the crossroads of art and fashion in Hanover Square, the hotel dedicates itself to local culture and craftsmanship. It’s palpable in the design, dining options, art installations and experiences on offer.Set back from the pretty square, the entrance is unassuming. But the lobby, resplendent in rare Ming green marble, makes a big impression. Meander across a glass walkway and you’re transported to the heart of the building — a large, spiral staircase winds down to Akira Back (the eponymous chef’s first U.K. restaurant) with triple-height glass ceilings that flood the gallery-like space with light.The hotel was designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners with interiors by Studio Indigo, and beautifully showcases Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage through the prolific use of that green Ming marble, ikebana-inspired floral arrangements, silk accents and intricate wooden sculptures. These nods to the hotel’s roots are seamlessly blended with locally inspired elements (the choice of green marble also pays homage to leafy Hanover Square) and the works of renowned British artists and fashion designers, including Vivienne Westwood (who created the property’s signature fan, a Mandarin Oriental tradition).