Preparing for its UK debut, Aethos London, a new destination in the heart of Shoreditch, will be opening its doors in October. The project marks a thoughtful reimagining of an already iconic building, originally developed as a hotel and opened as Nobu Hotel Shoreditch in 2017. The original structure stood out for its layered concrete volumes and its fragmented façade that appeared to peel away from the street.
The brief was to reimagine a hotel experience that captures the raw, creative spirit of the location through a refined and emotive lens. Astet looked to the area’s industrial and textile history, the changing language of its street art and its unique balance of tradition and rebellion. These references informed a design that feels both grounded and experimental, where craftsmanship and contrast work together to create a rich, cohesive atmosphere.
Materiality played a central role. Astet used a palette that balances raw and refi ned, textured textiles, brushed metals, and combined wood tones. Each material was chosen for its tactile quality and connection to the area’s industrial and artisanal roots. The colour palette draws from urban references like rust, concrete and charcoal, softened with warmer notes to create a mood that is both grounded and inviting.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.
