W Edinburgh, Jestico + Whiles

Project: W Edinburgh
Award: Hospitality Interiors - Hotel & Other Overnight Accommodation, 2024
Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Design Practice: Jestico + Whiles
Client: Nuveen Global

W Edinburgh comprises three distinct buildings positioned around the newly redefined, historic St James Square, a focal point for Edinburgh. Across its three buildings, the hotel has 199 rooms and 45 suites. 

The Ribbon Building, the centrepiece of the hotel, innovatively positions public areas on the uppermost floors, culminating in a vast roof terrace that offers guests panoramic views of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks. In contrast, James Craig Walk retains the historical charm of its 18th-century origins. This listed terrace has been meticulously restored, preserving its robust stone façade, high ceilings and sash windows. The Quarter House acts as a seamless transition between the Ribbon Building and James Craig Walk. It embodies a more reserved, understated elegance.

“Our design brings together the past and the present to create a new perspective on an ancient city, as well as delivering a luxury hotel of the highest quality,” Jestico + Whiles said. 

“The hotel’s interiors are crucial to its success, weaving together multiple narratives from the cultural, historical and geographical context of the city,” the design studio added.

Design highlights

The hotel’s interiors are inspired by the elements of Edinburgh, a coastal city built on volcanic rock, with references to fire and water throughout. Dark ‘charred wood’ panelling is complemented by copper detailing, with tonal hues referencing thistle, copper and woad blue, and a deconstructed tartan motif appearing across soft furnishings and carpets. The hotel’s welcome desks and bedroom bars are crafted from natural rock, a tribute to the city’s volcanic geology and rugged terrain. The luxury spa continues the elemental theme, with distinct rooms themed around fire, water, earth and air. 

The Extreme Wow suite is the pinnacle of luxury, spanning 1,600 square feet and offering a spacious dining room, bar, living area, personal sauna and private terrace, as well as a bedroom featuring a unique circular and rotatable super king size bed. 

Photo credit: Ed Reeve