The Berkeley’s Gallery Suite bedroom designed by John Heah © Ray Main
The Berkeley’s General Manager, Knut Wylde
The Berkeley’s Crescent Pavilion Suite terrace © Jamie McGregor Smith
WHAT DO YOU STRIVE TO BRING TO THE TABLE AT THE BERKELEY?
A big part of my role at The Berkeley is setting the strategic direction for the property, but I am also constantly trying to bring creativity, innovation, and a sense of humour to the table. Luxury does not need to be stuffy: I say we are the naughty younger sister of Claridge’s and The Connaught.
I bring an international background from city hotels to resorts on private islands, mountain properties, and desert destinations. While I have a great deal of experience, it is always essential to assemble the right team. I can only be as good as the people around me. I see myself as a conductor of an orchestra. Although I can play two or three instruments well, my job is ultimately to make sure all musicians play in harmony and createa masterpiece.
WHAT DO YOU THINK GUESTS LOOK FOR IN THEIR STAY?
When you come to a hotel of our calibre, guests look for a seamless operation without hiccups. You come to a hotel to be looked after. Yes, travellers are looking for a beautiful hotel, but everyone can engage the best designers and design a beautiful property. That doesn’t make a great hotel. It ultimately all comes down to the service levels you deliver. That is the heartbeat. We want to anticipate needs before guests ask and ensure everything is seamless from arrival to when guests depart.
Above: The Berkeley’s Grand Pavilion Suite lounge © Jamie McGregor Smith | Hero: Entrance to The Berkeley © Joas Souza
WHAT KEEPS GUESTS COMING BACK?
Guests come back because of the people. We are very fortunate as we have the right combination of longstanding team members – some with over 40 years of experience at The Berkeley – as well as new blood. We receive a lot of guest feedback, which is always about the people. Reviews always include specific names, which clearly highlights that it is the people who make a hotel.
At The Berkeley, we always take a creative approach and don’t take ourselves too seriously. Little touches are important: a small note here or an amenity that is quirky, different, and smart.
WHAT CAN GUESTS EXPECT FROM A STAY AT THE BERKELEY AND THE EMORY, THE GROUP’S NEW HOTEL?
For The Berkeley, guests will experience a five-star luxury hotel, but one that is flexible and relaxed, not boring or formal. We provide an environment for our guests to feel comfortable and where they can let their hair down. One of my favourite spaces at The Berkeley is the counter at Cédric Grolet, where we do our omakase cake experience – the patisserie is so special.
Open as of this winter, The Emory offers a very different proposition to The Berkeley. The Emory is where you go to hide – it is more discreet and private, with more of a residential feel. One of my favourite spaces is the rooftop. It’s a private, guest-only environment on the 10th floor of the hotel in a glass box with 360-degree views over London.
The Berkeley Bar © Jamie McGregor Smith
A Prêt-à-Portea sweet treat at The Berkeley
The Snug at The Berkeley © Jamie McGregor Smith
To find out more about The Berkeley and book, contact the hotel using the below details:
The Berkeley
Wilton Place
London SW1X 7RL
United Kingdom
Web: the-berkeley.co.uk
Tel: tel:+442072356000
Email: info@the-berkeley.co.uk
Instagram: @the_berkeley
Facebook: @theberkeleyhotel