Spa Hopping: London Calling

The U.K. capital’s new spa playground might just leave the competition in its wake.
A newcomer to the London spa scene, Agua is part of the Mondrian hotel, located in Sea Containers House, a 16-story Brutalist-style building designed by American architect Warren Platner in the 1970s. The gigantic structure was envisioned as a luxury hotel, but when a global recession hit, those plans ground to a halt and the property was turned into offices for an international shipping company. That firm went bankrupt in 2006, and the building languished until 2011, when planning permission for extensive internal and external refurbishments was sought.

Thanks to a collaboration between the Mondrian’s parent company Morgans Hotel Group (MHG) and British interior design specialists Design Research Studio, the complex’s south wing has been transformed into a 360-room, luxury hotel. At the studio’s helm is Tom Dixon, famed for his lighting, furniture and home accessories collections. This is the first hotel he has lent his name to, and the first Mondrian property in London. In other words, it’s uncharted territory for both parties.

For DAYSPA’s firsthand report on Agua, read our Spa Hopping here.

Agua Spa Lounge

Agua Spa Glamour Lounge

Agua Spa Reception Area

Agua Spa Steam Room

Elevator

Hotel Lobby

Dandelyan

Sea Containers Bar

Guest Room

Rumpus Room

River View Balcony Suite