Slumber party at the Shard

London, England
hf_Shard1

The evening sky changes colour over Tower Bridge as the day draws to a close in London. From this vantage point, it’s hard to believe that anyone would want to escape the high-octane hustle and bustle of this magnificent city but, then again…Chilling out with a champagne cocktail at Shangri-La’s 52nd level GONG bar might just be the latest take on financial district nirvana.

Inspired by the mythical aspect of the dragon-red mineral, cinnabar, that was used in the walls of Chinese imperial palaces, GONG’s intimate boudoir personality takes us back to the timeless allure of the Orient. Its sizzling backdrop and reservation-needed popularity have quickly earned GONG a name as the financial district’s latest go-to for a late-night drink.

hf_Shard3The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London, strategically occupies floors 34-52 of Renzo Piano’s new landmark in the vibrant London Bridge area. Here, with 185 distinctly spacious rooms and 17 signature, butler-serviced suites with picture-perfect, uninterrupted panoramas of life along the River Thames, accommodations are just as heavenly. Marble and silk interiors blend seamlessly with contemporary light-wood decors that are a gentle mix of modern Asian and high tech. The perfect spot for an adult sleep-over without the kids or a business rendezvous, Asian style.

hf_Shard2Divine dining is true to Shangri-La’s worldwide style with Executive Chef, Emil Minev leading a brigade of 60 to run LÁNG, TING, GONG and 24-hour room service. At TING, British fare with an enticingly delicate Asian twist is on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Service is top notch and the lively kitchen buzz and sneak peaks from the open-plan finishing deck make dining more fun here as well. The hotel’s quick-stop artisan deli and café on the main floor adds a sweet touch with home-made chocolates, signature cakes and pastries, as well as lovely sandwiches and creative beverages.

And, last to be finished, but well worth waiting for, is the spectacular “Skypool”on level 52. Why not take a dip with stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and Westminster in sight? And, if you’re still treading water at dusk, the team at GONG might just treat you to pool-side delights and a night-cap.
www.shangri-la.com

Photos: Shangri-La

Get our newsletter

Get monthly updates with unique HomeFront updates and stay up to date with tips and trends

Liquid Assets snuggles up inside

With snowy weather upon us, it’s time to find ways to stay warm and cozy at home. 5 Tips to get the look Bring out your soft and colourful throws. Robes and slippers will be your best friends. Stock up

Cabin Cool…

Between an estuary and the sea Picturesquely situated, this family cottage is a crisp update that’s inspired by old-fashioned boathouse style. Eight years ago, Jo Sinfield and his wife Sarah spent a weekend at a lodge on the Overberg coast

Liquid Assets snuggles up inside

With snowy weather upon us, it’s time to find ways to stay warm and cozy at home. 5 Tips to get the look Bring out your soft and colourful throws. Robes and slippers will be your best friends. Stock up

Make your space look expensive with these tips

Have you been wishing to make your home look more elegant but are stranded? Well, if you are such a one, you need not worry. This article will uncover some amazing tips and leave you more informed. And as you

Bella Cucina says come on back inside

Customized to suit Designed to merge the kitchen and living areas, Rialto display cabinets offer scenic solutions that showcase the finest interior fittings. snaidero.com-rialto   Nothing says welcome home better than a roaring fireplace and a hot drink. ‘Tis the

Bella Cucina says come on back inside

Aesthetic flare From candlelight cooking to running dinners and preparing family breakfasts, there’s a clever, clean and flexible solution for every chef. hackerkitchens.com   Nothing says welcome home better than a roaring fireplace and a hot drink. ‘Tis the season