Marriott’s Autograph Collection opens in London’s South Bank

Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott International, has announced the opening of Bankside, a new design-forward hotel on the south bank of the River Thames.

The 161-room boutique hotel is the latest addition to the portfolio of more than 150 Autograph Collection Hotels around the world that are “independent, one-of-a-kind and champion values of vision, design and craft”.

Led by Dayna Lee of Los Angeles’ Powerstrip Studio, the design of the six-storey hotel embeds the “historical ethos” of its South Bank surroundings within the aesthetic.  

Inspired by the art of craft, Lee commissioned British craftsmen to create features that reside in the hotel and pay homage to its British heritage, including Laura Carlin, a ceramicist and illustrator from London, who has provided two wall murals composed of illustrated tiles of cultural narratives of the South Bank.

Bankside also features a neighbourhood restaurant and bar. Head Chef Lee Streeton, formerly of 45 Jermyn Street, will lead Art|Yard, an informal design-focused all-day restaurant with its menu celebrating seasonal British produce with European influences.

Bankside has also partnered with Contemporary Collective to run a rolling Maker in Residence programme. This permanent space offers emerging artists the opportunity to showcase and create their work. Located on the ground floor of the hotel it will include a schedule of rotating makers offering a series of talks, previews and events throughout the year.

John Licence, VP premium and select brands Europe, Marriott International, said: “We are thrilled to welcome our sixth Autograph Collection hotel to the UK; the first to this dynamic neighborhood on London’s South Bank. A social hub for anyone with a passion for culture, art and food, Bankside is sure to be exactly like nothing else for both local and global visitors alike.”