Toronto Star

London’s calling with a hip, new hotel

Latest Mondrian location is as cool and fun as its neighbours in Shoreditch

- PATRICIA KAROUNOS SPECIAL TO THE STAR

East London’s trendy Shoreditch neighbourh­ood is known for being a cultural hub, especially for its arts, fashion and food scenes. Now, you can stay in the heart of the action at the chic Mondrian Shoreditch, which started welcoming guests this summer.

Currently the only Mondrian in Europe (a previous London outpost closed in 2019), it’s taken over a building previously home to another boutique hotel, the Curtain. Award-winning British design firm Goddard Littlefair was enlisted to transform the space and bring it into the Mondrian’s fun-loving esthetic.

The result is an art-forward space, with large-scale works by British painter Fred Coppin taking over the ground-floor bar’s concrete walls, and fun installati­ons, like a secret mirror room perfect for IG snaps, in the lobby.

The 107 rooms and 13 suites (from $519) are characteri­zed by rustic, exposed-brick walls and more original art, including graffiti-style framed pieces. Some rooms overlook the bustling city below, while others offer private balconies. The roomy penthouse is outfitted with jewel-toned seating and graphic wallpaper, alongside floor-to-ceiling windows, two shower rooms and a free-standing tub.

The signature restaurant, BiBo, is steered by Andalusian chef Dani García, whose (nowclosed) eponymous restaurant in Marbella, Spain, earned three Michelin stars. Dine on standout dishes like creamy ham croquettes or pulled oxtail served on brioche with mushrooms.

Other in-house restaurant­s include Christina’s Shoreditch, the ground-floor café/bar offering baked goods, and Altitude at the Curtain, the members-only rooftop club retained from the previous hotel, where Shoreditch guests can also enjoy breakfast.

To make the most of the neighbourh­ood’s vibrant cultural scene, the hotel plans to partner with local talent and brands for art pop-ups and live performanc­es. When you venture out, you’ll find plenty to do within walking distance, of course, including wining and dining at the Michelin-starred bar/bistro Leroy, shopping at Spitalfiel­ds Market, and checking out all the art.

See an original Banksy on nearby Rivington Street, or explore the work of emerging creatives at one of the area’s many galleries.

 ?? COURTESY OF MONDRIAN SHOREDITCH LONDON ?? Many suites at the Mondrian Shoreditch feature a private balcony.
COURTESY OF MONDRIAN SHOREDITCH LONDON Many suites at the Mondrian Shoreditch feature a private balcony.
 ?? NIALL CLUTTON ?? The playful and plant-filled lobby of the Mondrian Shoreditch.
NIALL CLUTTON The playful and plant-filled lobby of the Mondrian Shoreditch.
 ?? NIALL CLUTTON ?? The terrace at Altitude at the Curtain, the hotel’s members-only rooftop club.
NIALL CLUTTON The terrace at Altitude at the Curtain, the hotel’s members-only rooftop club.
 ?? NIALL CLUTTON ?? The hotel’s amenities include a 24-hour gym as well as a rooftop pool.
NIALL CLUTTON The hotel’s amenities include a 24-hour gym as well as a rooftop pool.
 ?? NIALL CLUTTON ?? Unwind with a cocktail at the Mondrian Shoreditch’s Rose Lounge.
NIALL CLUTTON Unwind with a cocktail at the Mondrian Shoreditch’s Rose Lounge.

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