The Imperial: Why Bloomsbury’s Beacon is the Modernist Hotel of 2026
A Design Evolution
The Imperial has long stood since 1904 with a notable presence on Russell Square in Bloomsbury. Back then, it arrived in full neo-gothic flourish, adorned with turrets, tiles and featured a grand ballroom and Turkish baths lined with glistening golden mosaics.
In 1966, the original building took its final bow. By 1970, it returned in a striking Modernist form accented through clean lines and confident angles - a bold reflection of the era and a new way of seeing the city.
The Imperial’s departure from a classic, ornate landmark to a functional and geometric structure naturally evoked some negativity, as did development of other modernist and brutalist buildings throughout the city of London.
But now, in retrospect, these are among the most iconic buildings in the city - characterising an era of social and political change. Modernist art, furniture, patterns and ideology have withstood the test of time, and mid-century modernism has become a popular design style for many. From the Barbican Centre to the (recently listed!) National Theatre, it would be remiss to deny the impact and influence of modernism in the capital.
Now, reopening The Imperial as a reimagined version of its former self, modernist clarity can be found in the heart of the renovation - an understanding and appreciation of a building that speaks so clearly to the time of its creation. The Imperial in this new chapter embraces natural light courtesy of the large, angular windows, leaning into honest luxury through warmer material palettes, such as wood, stone and earthy tones. A delight for guests without forgetting the roots of its most favoured attributes.
Through this refurbishment, the hotel invites its guests and visitors to see beyond the façade of the building, into the principles that defined an era.
The Imperial reflects the core of modernism through the marriage of thoughtful design and experience touchpoints, with the modern expression of what travellers look for today. From the art on the walls, to the music playing throughout, The Imperial is true to the movement that defines it.
Where Architecture Elevates Experience
Of course, it goes without saying that delighting guests comes first and foremost to the reopening. As a 4-star hotel, The Imperial will embrace quality where it matters. It’s not just about the striking architecture, but crucially how the guest experience will rise to meet this.
With king-sized beds throughout, all-day dining, curated spaces for those in-between moments, and Arcus - a 374-seat rooftop bar with astonishing, sweeping views of London - The Imperial delivers at each point that matters.
This is human-centred design, with a modernist mindset breathing life into it.
Wellbeing and social interaction have also supported in redefining the hotel. As a progressive proposition, the guest experience understands the needs of today’s traveller, as well as the increasing demand for hotels to be a continuation of a guest’s lifestyle. It’s the ability to work out, eat well, immerse culturally, and be surrounded by sound and smells that spark curiosity and enjoyment.
The Imperial provides opportunities for social interaction through programming such as expert talks, live music, mindfulness workshops, and public spaces designed for spending time together. Social connection is the foundation of events and activities within the hotel - an opportunity to learn something, try something, experience something, whilst nurturing human connection.
The Imperial encapsulates lifestyle hospitality, then makes it its own. Not just a place to sleep, nor a traditionally luxurious property - but a retreat positioned within the bustle of Central London. Proximity to the centre doesn’t, in this instance, create an urgent, fretful space. In fact, The Imperial proves that slowing down and settling in can exist whilst still in the thick of it. Energy levels vary throughout the hotel; quiet corners for reading alongside lively, chattering bars. A moment of peace in the privacy of a bedroom before lively drinks on the roof, or a slow nightcap in the
Edit Bar & Lounge.
Bloomsbury’s New Skyline
A guest favourite will undoubtedly be Arcus, the rooftop bar and restaurant perched on the tenth floor. Benefitting from the low skyline of Bloomsbury, juxtaposed by the teetering buildings of The City beyond, Arcus is blessed by unique views of a neighbourhood often overlooked. Now, it will be seen in another light - from above, with a drink and great company.
As the only rooftop bar in Bloomsbury, and certainly the only hotel in the area with a rooftop bar, the views are uncontended. Best enjoyed with a bespoke cocktail, sharing plates, or a morning coffee, the space is big enough that it somehow breeds privacy. A small table for two in the corner, a seat at the bar, or even a reservation in the private dining room - there’s room for everyone to find a nook of their own.
Hotel guest experience isn’t lost in Arcus, despite it being open to the public. In fact, guest activities such as a ‘sun-awakening ritual’ - a sunrise juice with a view - and breakfast served on the roof will provide additional, unique opportunities for hotel guests to enjoy the space.
Why The Imperial Defines Modernist Hospitality in 2026
The Imperial blends a striking, richly historic building with contemporary design and an experience that rises to meet, and then elevate, guests’ lifestyle. Modernism doesn’t just exist in the angular windows and geometric exterior - it’s in the forward-thinking service style, the thoughtful partnerships, the playlists, the seasonal menus, and the artwork hanging on the walls.
Modernism is not merely a characteristic of this hotel; it’s a celebrated core identity that is, and deserves to be, shouted about to the many footsteps set to walk its reimagined rooms.
FAQs
What is the architectural style of The Imperial?
The Imperial is a modernist building, with traits of brutalism. It was built in the late 1960s, towards the end of the modernist era.
How has the 2026 renovation transformed the hotel?
The 2026 renovation has transformed the guest experience, whilst maintaining and enhancing the existing building. With all-day dining, a bar and restaurant on the roof, a gym and wellness terrace, plus suites featuring bathtubs on the terrace, the reimagined Imperial is a place to discover and savour, rather than only a place to sleep.
Does The Imperial have a rooftop bar and restaurant?
The Imperial has a tenth-floor rooftop bar and restaurant called Arcus, serving bespoke cocktails and sharing plates. It often features live DJs, and has an ongoing and ever-changing schedule of events for guests and non-guests alike to enjoy.
Why is The Imperial considered a Modernist icon?
The Imperial is considered a modernist icon because of its striking facade that towers over Russell Square, and juxtaposes the buildings it sits alongside. It has been the stomping ground of many celebrities and politicians throughout history, and is a local icon to Bloomsbury and beyond.
Where is The Imperial located in Bloomsbury?
The Imperial is located on the corner of Russell Square, two minutes from Russell Square station and ten minutes from Holborn station.
What makes The Imperial different from other Bloomsbury hotels opening in 2026?
The Imperial has been curated so that energy levels vary throughout the hotel. Whether it's a quiet nook for reading, the buzzing rooftop, the peaceful wellness terrace, or the bustling Edit Bar & Lounge, The Imperial provides the required vibe for the guest’s mood.