When planning a longer London trip, whether it be for a sightseeing escapade or a more al desko work-led relocation, there’s nowhere better suited to find a luxurious home from home experience than STAY Camden, says editor Sophie Ritchie
Cool but comfortable, STAY Camden’s collection of 169 apartments are so much more than a handful of painted walls and the odd bit of artwork. These are spaces meticulously designed to feel like home – whilst also offering guests a luxurious, high-end feel (and plenty of tech to boot) – plus weekly cleaning services, a 24-hour reception, security and concierge desk.
Offering 1,2 or 3 bed options (each with a fully fitted kitchen and living area) and tailored towards travellers looking to stay for longer lengths of time, with a minimum booking of seven nights, these vast abodes are ideal for living out your city slicker fantasies. Think endless design-led interiors courtesy of juxtaposing brass, exposed joinery, and brushed steel – plus ample amenities within strolling distance thanks to its central London location in Hawley Wharf.
The Room
I stay in an ultra modern two-bed apartment, which is hugely spacious and could easily accommodate four people or a small family. Even padding around in bare feet the following morning to make coffee has me feeling like I’ve somehow teleported into my own Pretty Woman moment. With city space at a premium, the apartments at STAY Camden are at least twice the size of a standard hotel room – starting from 55sqm/592sqft with the added boast of at least one private balcony for city gazing opportunities.
Artistic and reflective of its creative home in Camden, the apartment features minimalist, industrial chic furniture aplenty. Wooden loungers replace traditional arm chairs, lightbulbs protrude from chandeliers and even the rug is filled with woven bubbles to maximise the contrasting textures within the contemporary room.
Very cool and very calm, there’s an undeniably peaceful atmosphere from the moment the door shuts (a complete contrast from the hectic chaos of Camden’s nearby high street) and I settle in immediately, dropping my bag with relief as if I’ve just arrived from a long-haul flight rather than a stroll across Regent Park.
The living room’s muted colour tones – pops of cream, cappuccino, white and olive green – add to the soothing ambience. There’s nothing garish or high energy to be found, only subtle shades here – with the addition of chic lighting and artwork to bring the modern experience to life.
The decompressing continues with thoughtful details such as a Vogue X Music coffee table book and a plethora of snacks (I inhale several packets of biscuits faster than you can say “goodbye last year’s jeans”) but otherwise it’s very much your own imprint on the apartment. If you struggle to pack light, fear not – there’s ample storage space awaiting in each chic bedroom and bathroom too.
As always when staying anywhere long-term, food options are key. Luckily, STAY Camden’s kitchen area is in a league of its own. Unlike most hotels or serviced city apartments, which can often offer tiny kitchenettes with a microwave and mini fridge, the kitchen is vast and kitted out with every plate under the sun.
Think top of the range appliances, endless utensils and a fridge that could keep you going for weeks. There’s plenty of exciting places to eat out locally of course, but a large well-stocked Sainsbury’s is also only a five-minute stroll away too.
Splash out on one of the bigger apartments and there’s even more to enjoy than just an extra bathroom. A subtle Batman-like button in the apartment reveals a secret roof terrace, where one can climb up a set of stairs and observe the surrounding Camden kingdom, cup of coffee or glass of wine in tow.
Things To Try
1 Get Productive at LABS
Ideal for those combining work with pleasure, all residents also have access to LABS Hawley Lock, a flexible workspace and co working facilities found just a few floors below. This modern space is a hive of high energy ideas, fellow workers and even more complimentary biscuits – find a chair and your focus is bound to follow. labs.com/location/labs-hawley-wharf/
2 Get your coffee fix at Camden Coffee Roastery
Enjoy all things caffeinated at Camden Coffee Roastery, where the team hand-roast a variety of single origin coffees and house blends on their slow drum Giesen coffee roaster. Whether it’s a mocha, matcha, cappuccino or espresso, you’re bound to enjoy every sip – with a delicious all-day brunch menu to enjoy alongside too. camdencoffeeroastery.com
The Wordrobe Verdict
Ideal for both months of relocating or temporary stays in the city, it’s hard not to envisage living at STAY Camden forever once you’re over the threshold. Achieving an equilibrium of both cool and comfortability, the space feels not only incredibly stylish but durable too. If you can’t go home, fear not – check-in to the next best thing instead with this chic Camden gem.
Make it happen
Where: 1 Water Ln., London NW1 8NZ
Wallet: Rates start at £265 + VAT per night (7-night minimum stay).
How: Find out more and make a booking via stay.com or phoning +44 (0)20 3781 7999.
