The Other House is not your typical hotel. In fact, it is not even a hotel. It is an aparthotel designed to be 'your other house for as long as you are in town'. Located in Kensington, this residence embraces a 'Residents Club' concept, blending apartment-style accommodation with the flexibility and facilities of a high-end hotel. It also offers elements of exclusivity through its private members club. Despite the members club, maximalist interiors, and stylish staff uniforms, there is an unexpected comfort and ease about the place that stays true to The Other House's mission.
Rooms and Facilities
The property features 200 Club Flats, including spacious studios and apartments. Each flat includes an open-plan lounge area, a fully-equipped kitchenette with oven, microwave, hob, and coffee machine, a bedroom, and a bathroom. In my flat, the bed and bathroom were located up some stairs, separate from the lounge and kitchen, allowing guests to create distance between living and resting spaces. This is particularly beneficial for longer stays where guests may plan to cook in the kitchenette. The rooms feel luxurious and modern without the coldness often found in contemporary hotels. The flats themselves are more understated than the bold decor elsewhere in the hotel, creating a homely feel away from the extravagance. Pet-friendly accommodation is also available for those traveling with four-legged companions. Robes and slippers are provided in the rooms and can be used in the spa facilities. It would be a shame not to make use of them during your stay. The 24/7 gym is generously sized for those who wish to work out. The vitality pool is large enough for leisurely swimming and is open from 7am to 9am, with specific times for children. It is accessible to residents and members, along with the sauna and steam room. The spa area is not huge but offers ample space for a comfortable experience. During my visit, there were around ten people in the spa, and it did not feel crowded. The Other Space is the dedicated wellness area for treatments, but these must be booked at least 24 hours in advance as there are no in-house staff.
Food and Drink
The classy ambiance extends to the food and drink areas. Breakfast is served from 7am to 11am and includes continental options such as yogurts, fruits, cereals, and pastries, as well as well-cooked, flavorful meal choices like chorizo and sweet potato hash and mushrooms on toast, beyond the standard Full English. The Other Kitchen is an all-day brunch spot, while the cocktail bar Owl & Monkey offers a casual evening experience. Open from 5pm until midnight, it is a cozy, dark lounge serving delicious cocktails and appropriately sized sharing plates. Menu highlights include crispy sprouts and Oxford Isis cheese. Enjoy the atmosphere during DJ night at Owl & Monkey or catch Sunday Jazz Brunch in The Other Kitchen.
Hotel Highlights
Even if you are not a member at The Other House, you still feel like one. Only a few aspects of the stay are exclusive to members. Downstairs in the private club, accessible to residents and members, there are two charmingly decorated lounges for work or relaxation, where drinks can be ordered. The Den is a small cinema room that can be booked in advance for intimate moments, and there are private whiskey lockers for members. If you cannot access those, try the 24-hour library space upstairs, which offers drinks and games.
Nearby Attractions
The Other House is a short walk from Gloucester Road tube station and close to South Kensington, home to the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A. The Design Museum is near Kensington High Street, reachable in one tube stop, by bus, or on a longer walk. Notting Hill, Portobello Road, and Chelsea are also nearby. With the tube right on your doorstep, the city is easy to explore.
Best For
Guests seeking a sophisticated stay in the city with genuinely comfortable, cozy accommodation and added extras that will not surprise you with hidden costs. Rates for a Club Flat start from £250 per night. Membership at The Other House starts from £80 per month. For more information, visit otherhouse.com.
