London’s Royal Docks were once the mercantile hub of the British Empire, but decline followed their closure in 1981. At the turn of the millennium, ExCeL exhibition centre opened, prompting regeneration. A decade later, new owners added an international convention centre, then held a competition to design an adjoining hotel.

 

The brief demanded an iconic gateway, the best and most sustainable hotel in Docklands, delivered before the 2012 Olympics, at which ExCeL would be the second largest venue.  It would become the first Aloft in the UK. The site abutted an elevated podium connecting the ICC with Docklands Light Railway.

 

Knitting together the levels, a south facing piazza expands the podium and greets arrivals from the station. Tucked below and warmed by energy efficient ground source heat pumps, the pool sits outside the main footprint, preventing costly transfer beams. Taxis enter a lower forecourt sheltered by a mirrored porte-cochere. Alongside, the pool extends into a reflective basin with woven mesh cascade. An oak spiral stair connects the entrances.

 

Contrasting with the rectangular exhibition halls, a serpentine form splits into a sinuous central spine and two crescent wings, the southern arc embracing the raised square. Corridors are transformed from standard linear monotony.

 

Influenced by 20th century Op Art, prefabricated facades emphasise movement and depth. Responding dramatically to shifting light and perspectives, the crescents are clad in thousands of shimmering steel shingles. Fritting on the glazed spine deemphasises fenestration, forming a giant canvas inspired by Victor Vasarely. These motifs carry through into landscape and interiors, unifying the guest experience.