Last month saw buyers get the chance to take away a bit of luxury and glamour as part of the significant renovation programme going on at The Dorchester.
Some of the finest lighting, furniture and interiors were up for grabs in what was a pivotal moment in the buyer’s calendar. As part of a two-day sale spearheaded by leading luxury hospitality auctioneer Pro Auction, buyers had the chance to acquire the trappings of a five-star lifestyle as The Dorchester continues its significant renovation, with more than 2,000 items going under the hammer as part of the project.
No place in London makes the case for glamour and tradition quite like The Dorchester. The famous hotel on Park Lane remains unsurpassed in its enduring opulence despite London being home to more five-star hotels than any other city in the world. Despite trends that have come and gone over The Dorchester’s 90-year history, its gilded Louis XIV furniture and glittering chandeliers remain supreme.
The hotel decided to auction off its treasures for the very first time, including fine furniture, fixtures and fittings, artwork and drapery from the luxury, 250-room property, exuding opulence through its traditional English deco, along with the contents of the bar and promenade designed by renowned architect and designer Thierry Despont.
From the finest cocktail cabinets to the most elegantly designed commodes, angelic accent and armchairs, bespoke mirrors each with a story to reflect upon, period dining and writing desks, an impressive array of craftsmanship was on offer. There was the most royal of rugs, sumptuous sofas and all manner of bespoke bedroom fixtures and fittings providing a feast for the senses.
With a history dating back to 1931, The Dorchester consistently made a positive impression on royalties, A-list celebrities and those with a taste for the finer things in life. This will be the largest scale renovation at The Dorchester since 1989 and will start with the entrance to the hotel, The Promenade and The Bar at The Dorchester, as well as two guest floors, with this work to be complete by September.
The Dorchester remains open throughout the renovation, with afternoon tea served in the spectacular Orchid Room and a Mediterranean concept for The Dorchester Rooftop throughout summer. The Grill, Alain Ducasse and China Tang all remain open as normal, as will The Dorchester Spa, the hotel’s ballroom, the Penthouse & Pavilion and the Chef’s Table.
Simon Rose of Pro Auction said:
“This major renovation project for the hotel brings with it the opportunity to purchase a piece of the hotel’s history at auction as the owners pave the way for a new chapter for The Dorchester.”
Find out more at www.dorchestercollection.com