The Dorchester Partners with Luke Edward Hall to Reimagine Iconic Oliver Messel Suite Terrace

New terrace design blends heritage, artistry, and luxury overlooking Hyde Park

The Dorchester has unveiled a newly redesigned terrace for its iconic Oliver Messel Suite, marking the final chapter in the restoration of one of the hotel’s most celebrated accommodations.

Created in collaboration with renowned English artist and designer Luke Edward Hall, the terrace extends the suite’s distinctive aesthetic while offering guests a private outdoor sanctuary overlooking Hyde Park.

The launch further strengthens The Dorchester’s commitment to preserving its rich design heritage while introducing thoughtful contemporary elements that enhance the guest experience.

A Tribute to Oliver Messel’s Legacy

The Oliver Messel Suite holds a unique place in The Dorchester’s history.

Originally designed by legendary British stage designer Oliver Messel in 1953, the suite remains one of the most complete examples of his interior design work. Known for his theatrical flair, decorative confidence, and masterful use of color, Messel created spaces that balanced fantasy, elegance, and intimacy.

For Luke Edward Hall, whose work spans collaborations with Burberry, Lanvin, the Royal Ballet, and the Royal Academy of Arts, the opportunity represented both a professional milestone and a personal tribute.

“I’ve been a fan of Oliver Messel for many years,” Hall said. “The rooms Messel designed at The Dorchester are iconic, so to have the chance to be involved was something I jumped at.”

Inspired by Color, Craftsmanship, and History

Hall carefully drew inspiration from the suite’s interiors, incorporating soft peach, blue, green, and yellow tones found throughout Messel’s original design.

These colors are reflected across custom furnishings, fabrics, and decorative details, creating a seamless visual flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The terrace also features bamboo and rattan elements that echo materials already present within the suite, while cushions and soft furnishings showcase recreated versions of Messel’s historic rose-patterned fabrics.

Curated Design Pieces

The terrace combines antique and contemporary furnishings selected to complement the original Messel-designed pieces still found within the suite.

Highlights include:

• A mid-century Italian patio furniture set
• French painted and gilt stools
• Rattan loungers handcrafted by The Houghton Collection
• Custom textiles from Hall’s collaboration with Italian luxury textile house Rubelli
• Handcrafted parasols by Italian maker Guido Toschi Marazzani Visconti

The collection reflects a shared appreciation for artistry, craftsmanship, and timeless design.

A Private Escape Above London

Available exclusively to guests staying in the Oliver Messel Suite, the terrace offers a rare sense of privacy in the heart of London.

Thoughtfully landscaped with greenery and designed for multiple uses throughout the day, the space invites guests to enjoy breakfast overlooking Hyde Park, relax on handcrafted loungers, or unwind with evening cocktails while taking in views of the city skyline.

“I hope it will feel like a surprise, a refuge of calm and beauty,” Hall added.

Continuing The Dorchester’s Transformation

The terrace project follows The Dorchester’s most significant renovation in more than three decades.

Recent enhancements across the property include the refurbishment of guest rooms and suites, the Royal Suite, The Promenade, Vesper Bar, Artists’ Bar, The Grill, and the hotel’s popular Cake & Flowers boutique.

According to Luca Virgilio, General Manager of The Dorchester, the terrace completes the restoration of a suite that represents an important chapter in the hotel’s legacy.

“The Oliver Messel Suite holds an extraordinary place in our history, and its recent restoration was guided by a deep sense of responsibility and care,” Virgilio said. “The result is a beautifully considered space that enhances the suite while offering guests a new and atmospheric way to experience it.”

Why It Matters

The redesign demonstrates how heritage hospitality brands can preserve historic design while introducing contemporary creativity. By partnering with Luke Edward Hall, The Dorchester has created a space that honors Oliver Messel’s legacy while offering modern luxury travelers an exclusive and immersive experience in one of London’s most iconic hotels.