Where customer service is an art form... by MARGARET CARRAGHER

FROM couture to cuisine, the French have a way of elevating even the most ordinary to ‘haute’ status. So it’s no surprise that their luxury hotel brand Sofitel should exude a similar je ne sais quoi.

Its mission statement – to offer a genuine experience of the French art de vivre – was certainly being implemented in spades on our recent visit to the Sofitel London St James. Timed to coincide with such seasonal delights as Kew Gardens and Shakespeare’s Globe, our weekend break captured London at its beauteous best – and with our accommodation within easy striking distance of many of its most celebrated landmarks, we couldn’t have been better placed to enjoy it.

Originally designed as headquarters of the prestigious Coxes & Kings Bank, the Grade II listed building on the corner of Pall Mall in SW1 is among the most coveted addresses in London.

Its French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon has created a contemporary style that preserves the neo-classic integrity of the building whilst respecting its very British culture; indeed, its illustrious past is still very much present in the many paintings, photographs and restored bank memorabilia from the former Cox’s & King’s boardroom.

An illuminated 3-metre high engraved glass wall at the entrance recounts its history in a few well chosen words inscribed by French calligrapher Claude Médiavilla.

The lobby is a perfect blend of classic elegance and contemporary chic with the traditional leather panelling of the reception desk providing a delightful foil for the huge glass and chrome clock – a witty, contemporary take on Big Ben – overhead.

To read the rest of Margaret Carragher's feature on her stay at Sofitel London and see all the pictures, pick up a copy of Northern Ireland Travel News...

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