RENAISSANCE Hotels recently celebrated the official grand opening of the much-anticipated St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in Kings Cross, London, UK, with the event marking the completion of an impressive £150-million ($246-million) restoration and the rebirth of the original hotel, one of London’s most iconic hotels and now the newest gem in the Renaissance global portfolio of 150 properties. Hailed as the most romantic building in the capital, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London features beautifully restored architecture, art, design and décor by Manhattan Loft Corporation in conjunction with building contractors Galliford Try, RHWL Architects, conservation architect Richard Griffths and interior designers GA Design International. Work on the project began in 2005 and its completion marks the final piece of the St Pancras regeneration project, which has included the restoration of St Pancras Station, now the home of Eurostar. Having originally opened in 1873 as the Midland Grand Hotel, the structure is applauded for its dramatic High Victorian Gothic architecture and stately interior and is celebrated as one of the most impressive Victorian buildings in London and the UK. Recognised as one of the city’s greatest landmarks, the building exemplifies the style and design of the old station during the 1800s and serves as the ultimate location for all travellers who are looking for the architectural romance and history of London. 'We are proud to welcome this esteemed property into the Renaissance global portfolio,' said Tina Edmundson, senior vice president of lifestyle brands for Marriott International. 'We look forward to doing this majestic building justice on its opening by entertaining guests with top-tier talent, exquisite cuisine and wowing those in attendance with a first look at some of the finest architecture in the world. Renaissance believes in discovering the hidden gems of every city and I cannot imagine a greater or more unique find.' The property boasts an impressive 542-sq-m lobby as well as two restaurants and bars including The Gilbert Scott restaurant which is run by one of Britain’s most celebrated chefs, Marcus Wareing. The dining area also features a beautifully designed interior by David Collins Studio which complements the Victorian Gothic features of the building. The main banquet facility, Hansom Hall, accommodates up to 550 people in its 449 sq m of luxurious space. There are eight additional meeting and function rooms which includes the meticulously-renovated ‘Ladies Smoking Room’, known for being the first place in all of Europe where it was acceptable for women to smoke in public. A sweeping forecourt and a formidable grand staircase serve as a unique entry to the hotel, displaying the subtle yet elegant details in both the ceiling and walls. Alongside its 245 rooms, the hotel also includes 38 gracious Victorian suites in addition to the newly-constructed Barlow House which hosts original artwork and contemporary design. Travellers far and wide will be entrenched in British history with every corner they turn, whether it be at The Booking Office Bar & Restaurant or the barber’s shop and luxury spa, which includes a swimming pool and six treatment rooms.