How Kit Kemp created a luxury design haven at Soholistic Spa

Soholistic Spa Ham Yard Hotel has lots of things to recommend it. Amongst them however, is its unique and impeccable style. Part of the Firmdale Collection of hotels, its interiors have been designed by the renowned Kit Kemp, interior designer as well as Founder and Creative Director of the famous hotel group.

A world-famous interior designer

Kemp’s style is instantly recognisable. She has a talent for combining colour and patterns in a manner that’s sophisticated, calming, fun and timeless. She once told House & Garden:

“In my sitting room, the chairs are covered in a mishmash of playful, bright fabrics. Felt figures have been appliqued on a green armchair; and clash in the best possible way with an orange Ben­nison fabric. Never take things at face value; mix old furniture with new fabrics. Be as bold as you dare.”

Be as bold as you dare

Together with her husband, they began their hotel journey in the mid-Eighties and it hasn’t faltered since. Think high upholstered headboards, bespoke curtains and tub chairs in the rooms and suites but alongside that Kemp is acutely aware of the other elements that contribute to a space. Scent, light and texture all come into play, which is where the spa really shines. She even created her own bath product collection, RIKRAK, which features in the hotel rooms.

The spa at Ham Yard Hotel is no exception. It is the design that is an essential part of this particular spa. Small and perfectly formed, it is a departure from typical spa decor. For example, while muted tones might typically be the soothing order of the day, here there are pops of burnt orange alongside cool marble, dark wood floors and a fusion of textured materials from pebbled walls to smooth stone tables.

Relaxation in the city

There is a real sense of exclusivity - this isn’t about an enormous range of facilities; it’s very much about enjoying the treatments and the moment. There are two individual rooms and a double treatment room, along with a relaxation area, steam room and showers. Meanwhile, it’s partnered with British brand Temple Spa to deliver luxury treatments.

Best experienced as part of a hotel break, the wider experience continues the designer feel good factor. Unique features include a drawing room, a library, a rooftop terrace, a theatre, and the hotel’s very own bowling alley.