A boutique throwback to prewar London

A massive grande dame, nor a trendy cosmopolitan affair.

The Beaumont Mayfair is an elegant tribute to the prewar grandeur of London. The hotel, which opened in 2014, takes cues from the checkered floors and polished wood panels of Art Deco palaces, but remains intimate, with only 101 rooms and suites. These are beautifully lit and comfortable with polished rosewood beds and custom seating; vintage works of art and bronzed mirrors provide decoration. On the ground floor, the Le Magritte Bar and Terrace is a handsome den trimmed with dark chocolate and blood-red details, and the restaurant, the Colony, serves a casual menu full beneath murals. Down in the basement is a chrome, marble and white-tiled spa. The most unusual aspect is ROOM, a dramatic suite designed by sculptor Antony Gormley that's attached to the south-facing facade and includes a bedroom as dark as a tomb.

You love Art Deco elegance and high design, but on an intimate scale.

Surrounded by black and white photos of ladies and gents bedecked in 1920s finery, you take a long sip of your Aviation, and peruse the cocktail list to see what forgotten classics to try next.

The Colony Grill - Inspired by the clubby, sophisticated Grill Rooms popularized in the 1920s

Le Magritte - Serves casual snacks and classic drinks

The Gatsby Room - A relaxed and intimate place to gather from early morning until late at night, its character inspired by the elegance and personalized hospitality of 1920s Mayfair