Buckle Street Studios, by Locke in Aldgate, is at the junction of the City and London’s vibrant East End nightlife. The property sits between the booming business district and the hip corners surrounding Brick Lane. Be in awe of all things Locke. The brand is increasingly moving to extend its welcome to other parts of Europe, maintaining the superb hospitality that has won them accolades beyond design awards. What Buckle Street Studios is about is welcoming London’s late-night shifters, weekend visitors, business commuters, and the usual tourists. As per the other properties within the Locke portfolio, a play with shapes and colours is consistent throughout, making it an Instagrammer’s dream or a design enthusiast’s haven. Matthew Grzywinski of Grzywinski+Pons, the designer behind the first four Locke locations, approached Buckle Street Studios as a little more innovative because he created a bridge between passers-by observing the unique exterior and guests staying at the property.
OUR STORY
Spread over 13 stories, Buckle Street Studios comprises 103 contemporary studio apartments, a concept store, a co-working area, a ‘Shaman’ coffee shop, and a meeting room. It is perpendicular to the first Lemon Locke aparthotel that opened in the area, in which you can also use their facilities if you wish to bounce between the two properties.
The new addition to the Locke portfolio breaks with brand convention with a hybrid room mix that includes 87 compact apartments with cleverly designed kitchens and living areas and 16 new hotel-style rooms catered for shorter stays. Locke, for the first time, features a thoughtfully curated concept store, in addition to a Makers Space that will champion emerging designers and artists, most of which are local. Expect to find limited edition items and collectables, from custom sneaker designer AfroKickz to ceramicist Ally Powell and artist Dion Kitson. Meanwhile, guests and locals can take advantage of a contemplative co-working space on the mezzanine floor, which will also host the aparthotel’s evolving cultural programme. The concept screams East London, known for being a hip, underground and diverse scene for creative talent.
The rooms and apartments combine neutral tones and moody lighting with raw concrete and plaster alongside brushed brass glitzy finishes. Some are adaptable and accessible, whilst others function as simple and well-designed spaces for one. A translucent glass crown enclosing the top two floors defines the building exterior, consciously designed to resemble a modernist lighthouse – an iconic beacon from which guests can explore East London. What’s to love? The floor-to-ceiling windows, toiletries, friendly staff, and digitalised in-guest service. Everything is well-considered and fits into each nook and cranny of the curvacious and stylish room, making the accommodation effortlessly cool, functional and comfortable.
THE GOODIES
- 87 compact apartments and 16 hotel-style rooms
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Bathroom amenities
- Smart Ultra HD 4K TV
- Desks
- Workout gym shared with Lemon Locke
- Restaurant
- Co-working space
- Shop and pantry
SUMMARY
Rate – Start from 149 pounds per night
Location – The EC3 postcode effortlessly blends the best of east and central London
Suitable for – Business, friends and couples
Tips – Whitechapel Gallery on Whitechapel High Street is always doing something fabulous. Also, spot the Georgian buildings on Fournier Street