INTERIOR architecture and design studio Macaulay Sinclair has revealed its impressive refurbishment of the iconic St. Pancras London Hotel for Hawksmoor’s eighth London restaurant.
In just ten weeks, the design team has sensitively transformed the Grade I listed building and World Heritage site into a refined dining space for the acclaimed steak restaurant brand.
Originally designed by Victorian Gothic Revival architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, the building served as the coffee room for St Pancras station from 1873 to 1935, before being converted into railway offices.
Macaulay Sinclair’s design takes inspiration from the existing architecture and preserves all original structure, while accentuating striking details found in the ornate triple-height ceiling, mosaic flooring and stained-glass windows. A complementary colour palate of deep greens, peacock blues and gold accents along with bespoke furniture, fixtures and fittings gives the space a recognisable Hawksmoor elegance.
Alongside dining for 95 guests in the main restaurant is the 60-seater Martini Bar, located behind a revolving door. There is also a chef’s table in the kitchen and private dining room on the basement floor, each seating 12 and offering a more exclusive and intimate experience.
Speaking about the 14th collaboration between Hawksmoor and Macaulay Sinclair, director Mike Sinclair, said: “Of all the Hawksmoor projects we have delivered, this has certainly been one of the grandest spaces we’ve worked in. Conceptually, this has been a dream project, and we’re proud to be part of the building’s story alongside Hawksmoor.
“This was challenging due to the record timeframe – with just four weeks for planning and six weeks for delivery. Logistically, this was a huge task that required fast-paced decisions, strong communication and extensive expertise to deliver the standard required. However, this amazing space has really come together to showcase a Hawksmoor concept that celebrates the original design while offering something new and exciting.
“With so many bespoke elements, having that close connection with the team, dedicated heritage architects and Hawksmoor’s supply chain was invaluable to ensure tight deadlines were met. The final result is something we’re incredibly proud of and we feel more accurately represents this beautiful London landmark.”
The design journey begins as guests enter under newly installed signage, through the grand terrace on the front of the building, which has been enhanced with heaters and planting. Alongside this sits an outside kitchen and a bar, which will come to life in summer.
Inside, the main restaurant features a beautifully striking, crescent-shaped wall, with windows along one side that look onto the cobbled forecourt. Opposite this is a curved wall that has been adorned with bespoke, bevel-edged, timber frame mirrors of brass sheet, in a nod to the Gilbert Scott window design in St. Pancras International station.
Decorative ironmongery and mosaic flooring complement the stone entrance near the prominent staircase – known for featuring in the Spice Girls’ Wannabe music video. Parquet flooring has replaced carpet for a more elevated finish, with new drapes, bespoke seating, tables, lighting and hand selected trinkets aligned to the aesthetic Hawksmoor is known for.
Mai Yee Ng, design director at Hawksmoor, said: “We love working with heritage buildings, and they don’t come much more spectacular than this Grade 1*-listed masterpiece by one of Britain’s most important architects, Sir George Gilbert Scott. This has been the tightest turnaround of any project we’ve taken on, and working with our friends at Macaulay Sinclair has been invaluable. The result is incredible – a unique space that honours the fabric of the building, whilst weaving in familiar Hawksmoor features.”
Hawksmoor St. Pancras opened on Saturday, 22 November at St Pancras London, Euston Road, London NW1 2AR.
For more information on Macaulay Sinclair’s latest projects, visit: https://macaulaysinclair.com/insights/