Studio Moren, working across architecture and interior design, has transformed three adjoining Georgian townhouses to create the distinctive 43-key Bertrand’s Townhouse for SAV Group. The project preserves the charm, scale, and domestic intimacy of the historic buildings whilst introducing a refined contemporary aesthetic, inspired by Bloomsbury’s rich cultural and literary heritage.
At the core of the interior design narrative is a tribute to a constellation of remarkable characters – such as one of Britain’s most distinguished intellectuals, Bertrand Russell – who made Bloomsbury the beating heart of early 20th-century intellectual and artistic life. Their stories inform an atmosphere of considered domesticity – layered, textural and personal rather than thematic.
Public areas are arranged as a sequence of richly toned rooms, with palettes becoming deeper as one moves through the building. A brass-detailed bar forms the social focus, linking the spaces and reinforcing the townhouse’s natural rhythm.
Guestrooms follow two distinct schemes. Classic and Deluxe rooms celebrate craftsmanship and creativity, expressed through soft neutrals, tactile materials and quietly detailed joinery. Grand rooms and Junior Suites introduce a richer palette of paprika tones, expressive trims and curated furnishings, creating a sense of warmth and collected sophistication. Two of the Junior Suites feature freestanding bathtubs, positioned to capitalise on garden views enjoyed through all sash windows.
The private garden is a serene continuation of the townhouse aesthetic. Informal seating, textured planting and gentle illumination establish a calm, secluded retreat that contrasts with the urban Bloomsbury setting. York stone paving and traditional planters reinforce the townhouse’s heritage while delivering an inviting outdoor space for guests.
Material specification has been driven by quality, longevity and narrative relevance. Broadleaf timber flooring, Chelsom lighting and Ege carpets are used throughout, while Kohler brassware provides refined detail within the bathrooms.
“The design of Bertrand’s Townhouse is grounded in an understanding of the building’s architecture and its original townhouse proportions,” says David Harte, Partner and Head of Interior Design at Studio Moren. “Our approach centred on craft, materiality and spatial flow, creating interiors that feel intimate and considered. The townhouse typology offered a robust framework, allowing the design to respond directly to the building’s existing character.”
Rooted in Studio Moren’s experience of working with historic townhouses across Bloomsbury and Camden, the architectural approach to Bertrand’s Townhouse is defined by careful restraint and deep respect for the existing fabric, while enhancing the inherent townhouse typology. The Georgian frontage and much of the original structure have been retained and restored, allowing the building’s proportions, rhythm and material character to remain legible throughout. Rooms retain period proportions and new interventions are deliberately light-touch, allowing the buildings’ craftsmanship and symmetry to remain at the forefront.
To discreetly increase capacity – a hallmark of Studio Moren’s expertise – three modest closet wings have been introduced at the rear. The scale and articulation of these spaces are deliberately understated, ensuring the additions sit comfortably within the grain of the original building while supporting the operational needs of a contemporary boutique hotel.
As Mark Wood, Partner at Studio Moren, explains: “Working with historic buildings demands more than preservation alone. At Bertrand’s Townhouse, we balanced careful restoration with targeted, low-impact interventions – from discreet rear extensions to a tailored suite of energy-efficient technologies – ensuring the building performs responsibly while remaining unmistakably Bloomsbury in character.”
Emilios Tsavellas, Development Director at SAV Group added: “We were impressed by Studio Moren’s creativity across both the architectural response and interior design. From planning through to execution, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and a thoughtful approach to the inherent challenges of working with listed building”
Sustainability has been woven into the project with equal care. A tailored package of energy-efficient interventions – including air source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels – reduces both operational costs and environmental impact. By harnessing solar energy to power the heat pumps, the building achieves improved performance without compromising its historic integrity.
The result is a harmonious blend of heritage, comfort, and sustainable performance. Bertrand’s Townhouse stands as a refined Bloomsbury retreat, honouring its storied past while embracing the needs of a modern boutique hotel. Adding a distinctive presence to London’s hospitality scene, it offers a calm, characterful escape in one of the city’s most historic neighbourhoods.
www.studiomoren.co.uk | IG: @studio_moren | LinkedIn: @studiomoren
