Munich-based Ruby Hotels and the pioneer of the ‘lean luxury’ concept has launched its first UK property, in London’s Southbank. The new 75-room hotel, Ruby Lucy, forms part of an ambitious expansion plan for the group to unveil a total of eleven new hotels – including a second London property – by 2022.
Enjoying a prime position on the Southbank’s Lower Marsh, its interior design is inspired by the area’s bustling fairs and markets, entertainment and theatre scene, with a carnival theme running throughout the hotel. Located just a three-minute walk from Waterloo station, the property rubs shoulders with some of the city’s best-loved and lesser-known cultural gems.
A laid-back, contemporary design sees quirky touches such as the inclusion of a Marshall guitar amp in each room, which guests can use both with their own guitar or one borrowed from reception, and ‘Ruby Radio’, the hotel group’s own internet radio station.
“This works because we accommodate luxury in a relatively condensed space, similar to luxury yachts, and we forego unnecessary services. Thanks to proprietary technical innovations, we plan, build and organise ourselves differently from conventional hotels,” said Michael Struck, chief executive of Ruby Hotels.
