Crowne Plaza London Kensington

From the outside there's little to distinguish this Crowne Plaza hotel from the slew of other hotels housed in the white-columned, Georgian terrace townhouses typical of the area. However, a smart glass and steel entrance guarded by a solitary canine statue soon suggests something a little different, and the lobby doesn't disappoint. Designed with Feng Shui principles, the sleek reception area includes a dazzling array of reflective surfaces, from the polished marble floor to silver rococo pillars and glass paneling to floor-to-ceiling mirrors. A black slate water feature also symbolizes prosperity, while a congregation of metallic pebbles bounce light off a central, ultra-modern take on a chandelier. The atmosphere is tranquil, East Asian-inspired chic, feeling a world away from what you might expect from a chain hotel experience. Clientele are split between the well-heeled tourist and business guest, and rooms are very much styled to reflect this.

The hotel is located on the busy Cromwell Road, a major artery running through west-central London. The nearest tube station is Gloucester Road, a block away, which runs to the transport hub of Victoria Station in about five minutes or Paddington in 10. The green expanse of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park is about 15 minutes away on foot, while the nightlife of Soho and the West End is a 20-minute cab journey. The renowned Natural History and Victoria and Albert museums are also both within a 10-minute walk. There isn't any parking at the hotel but there is a nearby public lot for a fee.

The hotel has a total of 162 rooms, all of which are decorated in a cozy and homey style with patterned fabrics, carpeted floors, and throw cushions. Furnishings are sleek and contemporary with funky armchairs and swivel desk chairs. Standard in-room amenities include iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with free view channels and pay movies. Clean and contemporary bathrooms provide quality toiletries, while a nice extra (and now a standard in Crowne Plaza hotels) is a sleep aid kit which includes two aromatherapy products. Some rooms are showing signs of wear, though refurbishments are planned for late 2014. Executive Level rooms include free access to a private lounge with complimentary goodies like breakfast, booze, and snacks.

The hotel's Umami restaurant is a stylish and contemporary eatery offering a comprehensive selection of Pan-Asian dishes, which can also be ordered via room service. The Bar is an extension of the impressive lobby space and includes a list of signature cocktails and live jazz on the weekends. To the rear of the hotel is a peaceful garden area with seating terrace, canopy, and gas heaters for alfresco refreshments. The Lounge features particularly impressive interior design while the Club Lounge offers free papers and drinks buffet. A fitness center with modern Technoygym equipment and a sauna can also be found on-site.