Tim and Kit Kemp, founders, Firmdale Hotels

Tim and Kit Kemp, the founders of influential boutique hotel company Firmdale Hotels, have opened their latest property in London's Soho.

The Kemps have described the project as their most ambitious to date – it involved the transformation of a neglected three quarter acre site into a new 'village' with a tree-filled garden at its centre. The hotel includes 90 bedrooms and suites, 24 apartments, 13 independent shops and a restaurant and bar with outdoor space. It also features Firmdale's first Soholistic Spa and gym, a 176-seat theatre, a 1950s style bowling alley, drawing room, library and a rooftop garden.

“This part of Soho has felt slightly neglected in the past,” say Tim and Kit Kemp. “When you introduce a project like this into an area it can breathe new life into the environment. It enhances it and creates a village feel where everybody feels included. To walk into a tree-filled space in the centre of London is very special.”

The interiors have been designed by Kit Kemp in 'modern British style' – bedrooms feature strong colours and bold prints, while the bathrooms have standalone iron baths and are done out in oak and granite. The architecture was by global design and consulting firm Woods Bagot.

The Kemps launched Firmdale Hotels in 1985. It now has eight hotels – seven in London and The Crosby Street Hotel in New York City.

Details: www.firmdalehotels.com