Hidden among the grand white terraces of Harrington Gardens, The Other House South Kensington offers a fresh take on London luxury.
Occupying a series of restored Victorian townhouses, the property sits between hotel, private club, and long-stay residence. Its founders have crafted a concept that feels at once exclusive and informal, giving guests the freedom of a private apartment with the polish of a high-end hotel. The address itself is prime: a few minutes’ walk from Gloucester Road Underground station, and close enough to reach the V&A, the Natural History Museum, and Hyde Park on foot. Yet despite its central setting, there’s a sense of retreat the moment you step inside.
The interiors, created by designer Bergman Design House, channel a bold, layered aesthetic. Think deep jewel tones, plush velvet armchairs, and dramatic patterns inspired by nature. The mood is maximalist, bordering on theatrical, but it manages to remain comfortable and cohesive. The main atrium, with its sweeping staircase and chandelier, gives the impression of a private members’ club, while tucked-away corners invite guests to linger with a drink or book. The Club Lounge and Owl & Monkey Bar form the social heart of the property, attracting both residents and local creatives for low-lit evenings over drinks.
Accommodation comes in the form of “Club Flats”, each equipped with a lounge, kitchenette, and workspace. This layout reflects the brand’s ethos of flexible luxury, designed for guests who might stay a night or several months. The style is residential rather than hotel-like, with custom furnishings and smart tech for seamless control of lighting, temperature, and housekeeping through The Other House app. The result feels more like a pied-à-terre than a suite, ideal for business travellers or digital nomads who value independence without sacrificing comfort.
Wellness is another cornerstone of the experience. Downstairs, the “Other Space” houses a compact but well-equipped gym, a small swimming pool, sauna, and meditation room. Treatments and sound therapy sessions can be arranged, adding to the sense of urban sanctuary. Sustainability is also taken seriously; the property uses renewable energy, eco-friendly cleaning products, and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Service operates with a light touch. attentive but never intrusive. Staff refer to guests as “residents”, reinforcing the brand’s club-residence identity. While reviews occasionally note small inconsistencies in housekeeping or responsiveness, the general atmosphere is warm and personal, more akin to staying in a private home than a conventional hotel. The Other House also maintains a residents-only app, allowing digital check-in, room customisation, and messaging for concierge requests, appealing to travellers who appreciate autonomy and efficiency.
Despite its modern amenities, the property retains a strong sense of place. Original architectural features, cornicing, fireplaces, bay windows, anchor the design in its Victorian heritage, while the decor layers on contemporary drama. From the leafy terrace views to the hidden reading nooks, every element encourages guests to slow down and inhabit the space, not just pass through it.
The Other House South Kensington ultimately succeeds in offering something rare in London’s luxury landscape: a home that feels both private and connected. It attracts a creative, design-conscious crowd, people who might otherwise join Soho House or stay in serviced apartments but prefer a more personal, flexible base. The atmosphere bridges comfort and curiosity, providing a calm counterpoint to the city’s energy outside. For travellers seeking a long-stay option that combines independence, style, and a touch of club-like exclusivity, The Other House delivers a distinctive new chapter in London hospitality, one that redefines what it means to feel at home in the capital.
