The facade to Ember Locke is all handsome Kensington townhouse: rich red bricks, wrought iron railings and a quartet of stone Grecian urns flanking the staircase.
But potted on either side of the doorway are verdant Japanese aralia and Indian rubber trees, a little nod to the oasis you’ll find inside. Walk through the door, and it’s like you’ve stepped into a riad in Marrakech.
Designed in collaboration by creative and interior design studios Atelier Ochre and House of Dré, the warm, distinctive interiors were actually inspired by Kensington Roof Gardens – the erstwhile social hub of this part of town famed for its resident pink flamingos and long leisurely lunches.
The vibe
Located on Cromwell Road just a few minutes from Earl’s Court Tube station, Ember Locke is the sixth aparthotel in Locke’s fast-growing London stable. It’s a great hub from which to explore this historic part of town; the museums are practically on your doorstep.
And when you need to rest and relax, Ember Locke has your back – as well as your weary feet. There’s a chilled-out bohemian feel through the aparthotel which instantly relaxes you. It’s the kind of place that makes you think, ‘maybe I do have time for one more latte’ – or ‘midday is totally fine for my first beer of the day’.
The rooms
Spread across eight floors, there are 121 apartments ranging from studios, to duplex one-bedroom apartments. Each one has a fully fitted kitchen including a decent-sized fridge freezer. I’d recommend one of the apartments on the top floor if you can bag it – the beds are set in cosy alcoves dramatically framed by the angled roof lintels, plus sweeping banquette seating and a large marble dining table.
The interior design is on point – every detail oozes cool from the tasselled lampshades to the full-length lozenge mirror which rotates 180 degrees to reveal a hidden ironing board. Brass detailing, warm wooden flooring, and heavy dividing curtains ensure a sophisticated feel throughout.
Food & Drink
Kensington Leverne
Kensington Leverne
Complementing the lobby and common areas is food and beverage destination Eve. It comprises a coffee shop, bar and restaurant which weave through the co-working space. From here you can also book a meeting room or head out into the impressive garden. Though, when the weather is cold, the interior has enough house plants and hanging greenery to open a Homebase, so the outside is very much brought in for you.
Opening rates from £229 per night for the City Studio. More information on Ember Locke can be found at lockeliving.com
