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UK: Gencom, a US-based investment firm that owns and develops real estate around the world, has acquired Rosewood London, a 308-key luxury hotel located at High Holborn in central London.
The deal marks Gencom’s second Rosewood asset in its global portfolio, following its acquisition of the Rosewood Bermuda in 2017. HVS Hodges Ward Elliott represented seller on the asset sale.
The transaction was supported by HSBC and Santander through a £225 million senior debt financing package.
Rosewood London is housed in a landmark 1912 building close to Covent Garden, the Royal Opera House, the British Museum and Somerset House. The hotel underwent a transformation led by design firm Tony Chi Studios between 2011 and 2014.
Guest rooms and suites blend contemporary designs with elements inspired by British heritage and London living. The hotel features living spaces tailored to both leisure and extended-stay travellers, and its seven houses span up to 185 square metres with the Manor House Suite offering its own independent street entrance.
The hotel also offers a variety of food and beverage venues. Holborn Dining Room offers modern British brasserie cuisine and Belle Époque-inspired interior designed by Martin Brudnizki, along with its own street entrance. The Scarfes Bar serves cocktails with regular live jazz programming, the Gin Bar offers more than 300 varieties, and the Mirror Room hosts afternoon tea as the hotel’s all-day dining outlet.
“Rosewood London has earned its place among the world’s premier luxury hotels, distinguished by its iconic setting in one of the most important global gateway cities and by an exceptional guest experience that continues to resonate with the most discerning travellers,” said Karim Alibhai, Gencom’s founder and principal. “This acquisition reflects our strong conviction in the long-term strength, resilience and global appeal of the London hospitality market. It also represents an important milestone in our growing relationship with Rosewood, one of the world’s preeminent ultra-luxury hospitality brands.”
Alessandro Colantonio, Gencom’s chief investment officer, added: “Rosewood London exemplifies the type of investment opportunity we seek: an iconic, irreplaceable asset in a premier global hospitality market with strong long-term fundamentals and significant value-creation potential. At Gencom, we are focused on acquiring exceptional hotels in leading gateway destinations and partnering with best-in-class brands and operators to unlock their full potential. Rosewood London aligns perfectly with that strategy, combining one of the world’s most sought-after luxury hospitality brands with a landmark property in a market where we maintain strong conviction in long-term growth and demand.”
Radha Arora, Rosewood Hotel Group’s president, said: “Rosewood London holds a special place in our collection as one of the first openings that helped shape a new chapter for the brand. We are delighted to build on our relationship with Gencom, a partner who shares our commitment to distinctive places and exceptional hospitality. Together, we look forward to supporting the team as they continue to create the thoughtful, personal experiences that make Rosewood London so memorable.”
Chris Liddiard, senior director of real estate finance – hotels for HSBC UK; and Jose Minguela, senior director of hotels financing for Santander, said: “Gencom are an existing long-term client of Santander, and the acquisition of the renowned Rosewood London further strengthens their portfolio and reflects their strategy of investing in landmark properties in a key global gateway. As one of London’s most prestigious five-star hotels, and a long-term HSBC client, Rosewood London financing will support a focused CapEx plan to further enhance the asset.”
Highlights:
- Gencom has acquired Rosewood London, a 308-key luxury hotel in central London. The property is located on High Holborn, close to Covent Garden, the British Museum and Somerset House.
- The acquisition expands Gencom’s relationship with Rosewood. Rosewood London is Gencom’s second Rosewood asset, following its acquisition of Rosewood Bermuda in 2017.
- HSBC and Santander supported the transaction with £225 million in senior debt financing. The financing will also support a capital expenditure plan to enhance the hotel.
- Rosewood London occupies a landmark 1912 building. Its accommodation includes guest rooms, suites and seven houses, with the Manor House Suite featuring an independent street entrance.
- The hotel offers several signature dining and drinking venues. These include Holborn Dining Room, Scarfes Bar, the Gin Bar and Mirror Room, which is known for its artist-inspired afternoon tea.
