Best New Hotels 2008:Haymarket Hotel, London

With a location in the heart of London’s theatre and shopping district, and bold and beautiful interiors by Kit Kemp of The Soho Hotel and Charlotte Street Hotel, this newest Firmdale hotel is a gem. Chic comfort is the rule of thumb here, with its guestrooms kitted out in different colours and themes. The exquisite public areas – from the vast Shooting Gallery on the ground floor to the lushly decorated library and elegant conservatory – feature Kemp’s signature eclectic style with antique pieces sitting comfortably alongside new acquisitions, from an ostrich-egg light installation to specially commissioned artworks. Kick back with a cocktail in the front bar or pay a visit to the exceedingly glamorous subterranean pool, where scenes from the upcoming British comedy, How To Lose Friends And Alienate People, were shot.

We love Kemp’s unerring ability to combine comfort, elegance and style.

Rooms from about $550, www.haymarkethotel.com. MICHELLE ROWE