In 2025, a luxury hotel stay is as much about the experiences on offer as it is about the hotel’s amenities and atmosphere. This London hotel is helping pave the way.
After Fashion Week dominates the cultural calendar throughout September, it’s no secret that art sets the agenda in London across October. Frieze London and Frieze Masters open in Regent’s Park – accompanied by Frieze Sculpture – and runs from 15 to 19 October; PAD London runs from 14 to 19 October in Berkeley Square; 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair opens in Somerset House from 16 to 19 October… and the list goes on. In a city brimming with artistic encounters, it takes something special to stand out. Head over to Mayfair, where you’ll find an exciting programme of art events at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in collaboration with Mayfair Design District and running now until January 2026.
In partnership with Mandarin Oriental Mayfair.
The Exhibitions
At the heart of this collaboration between Mandarin Oriental Mayfair and Mayfair Design District lies the inaugural exhibition, Elemental Resonance – Nature Reimagined, which will run through January 2026. Fifteen artists and studios are taking part this year, each transforming the hotel into a sensory journey: spot Thomas Joynes’ brass Aurora sculptures in the lobby; Marlène Huissoud’s Black Sheep Cocoon Cabinet made from honeybee bio resin in the residential lobby; Aneta Regel’s stoneware, volcanic rock, and glaze Trio objects lining the corridor leading to Somssi restaurant; and Zena Holloway’s Still Life pieces made from fungi decorating the stairs near the restaurant. This is an exciting opportunity to experience art in a beautiful environment, beyond the confines of a gallery, created by a dynamic group of contemporary artists who are pushing the boundaries when it comes to the materials used in art-making.
Reflecting Mayfair Design District’s 2025 theme – Beyond Boundaries – each piece in the exhibition explores the elemental forces of earth, water, air and fire, offering a fresh lens on these timeless natural powers through the prism of contemporary design and sculpture. Mayfair Design District’s co-founder and curator Anne-Laure explains “we invite nature not as a backdrop, but as an active participant in contemporary design” – and it very much becomes as such via the exhibition.
From 12 to 14 November Mandarin Oriental Mayfair will also welcome a residency by artist Jemma Powell – known for her beautiful observationalist landscapes painted in pale watercolour tones. The residency is titled Time for Seeing. When was the last time you stopped to really see London? Stop by to watch Jemma paint London’s glittering skyscape from the hotel’s rooftop.
Art In Dialogue
In addition to the exhibition, curated art tours (available in three different tiers) of Mayfair are available to book, offering a personalised journey through the district’s vibrant cultural scene led by the area’s cultural experts – Mayfair Design District. Is there an artist’s gallery you’re yearning to peer inside of? Or perhaps an exhibition you’d love to hear more about? Fill out a pre-tour questionnaire and allow the team to complete the rest, a tour might include exclusive access, rare editions and expert insights.
Book An Art-Filled Stay
For those seeking a deeper dive into the creative heart of London, Mandarin Oriental Mayfair introduces the Elemental Escape Art Package – an exclusive offering that includes a bespoke gallery tour which will be specially curated by Mayfair Design District, a dinner for two at the hotel’s Somssi by Jihun Kim, and VIP amenities inspired by the Elemental Resonance exhibition. Guests will also enjoy access to The Spa, ensuring a fully immersive and luxurious experience.
For those attending – or wishing to attend – Frieze London, the hotel also offers the Frieze London Art Package, including VIP access to the fair, a bottle of Ruinart Champagne to sip on in the suite, access to The Spa, and, of course, the signature hospitality that Mandarin Oriental is renowned for. The package is available to book from 11 to 23 October.
All photo credit: Mandarin Oriental Mayfair
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?