We are inspired by the story of Camberley Kate, a passionate British dog lover who dedicated her life to rescuing stray pups. Over her lifetime, she cared for over 600 dogs, never turning away a single one. She was known for her green wooden cart, built by a friend, which she filled with dogs as she made her daily 4-mile journey around town, collecting more from the police station and surrounding areas. Although she has passed, her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who continue to honour her love for animals.
At our Design Studio, we share Kate’s love for animals—especially dogs—and this affection is reflected in our designs. Today, on the blog, we want to share how you can pay tribute to your favourite furry friends through thoughtful design.
At Crosby Street Hotel, our love for dogs is woven into the design. In the lobby, you’ll find whimsical papier-mâché dogs, crafted from vintage Beano comics—a playful nod to our canine companions.
Also at Crosby Street Hotel, a striking portrait of Simone, painted by François Bard, captures the grace of a dog through the classical techniques for which Bard is known.
The Brumus Bar & Restaurant at Haymarket Hotel takes its name from one of my beloved dogs, Brumus. In tribute to him, we created a unique design featuring hand-cut and appliquéd dogs of various breeds. We also have a special illustration of Brumus, created by Willow, framed uniquely with tins of his favourite dog food—an homage to the treats he loved. We like to think he took them with him on his journey to the afterlife.
One of our favourite artists who captures the personality and spirit of dogs is Holly Frean. Her artworks are filled with wit and humour, each dog imbued with its own distinct character.
At Knightsbridge Hotel, we feature charming collaged dog artworks, alongside a needlepoint pillow of a playful pup—both reflecting our love for dogs in art.
The Warren Street Hotel is home to beautiful greyhound artworks placed thoughtfully beside the beds. Their elegant wooden frames add a unique texture to the space.
And let’s not forget our playful Doggy Lamps—you’ll find these charming lights in many of our spaces, adding a touch of whimsy and character wherever they’re placed.
We hope these designs inspire you to pay tribute to your own furry friends in your spaces. After all, the love we share for our pets can make our surroundings even more personal and meaningful.