Aethos London Shoreditch opens with Astet

Boutique hotel brand Aethos has opened its first London property in Shoreditch. The interiors were designed by Barcelona-based Astet Studio within a Ron Arad Associates building that previously housed the Nobu Hotel Shoreditch.

Astet Studio co-founder Oscar Engroba told Dezeen the design approach was guided by an "East meets East" philosophy. The goal was not to recreate the area's industrial past but to bring its existing character into dialogue with the precision of Japanese design traditions.

Design Philosophy and Concept

The studio drew inspiration from the Japanese concept of Utsuroi. This principle was applied to spaces including the hotel's lobby, bar, gym, members' lounge, and Mitsu restaurant. Engroba explained that Utsuroi means "the architecture stays constant while the experience quietly evolves."

Guests enter through a layered concrete facade into an open lobby. Earthy browns and muted natural tones introduce warmth into the industrial setting. "We wanted guests to feel welcome and connected to the rhythm of Shoreditch, while still offering moments of calm," said Engroba.

Material Palette and Public Spaces

The colour palette references the Japanese Shin-Bijutsukai movement. Natural materials, planting, and filtered light are used to soften the architecture without diminishing its character. Contemporary, low-height seating is used throughout the public spaces. Large, textured rugs zone the area to create distinct relaxation spots.

Vintage decorative pieces and furniture are placed intentionally in the lobby. Works by local artists and designers connect the interior to its east London context. Bespoke wood panelling brings warmth and tactility to the industrial spaces across the lobby, breakfast rooms, and bedrooms.

Engroba detailed the material choices. "The palette combines hand-finished timber, textured ceramics, woven fabrics and predominantly matte finishes," he explained. Materials that absorb rather than reflect light were favoured. This creates subtle changes throughout the day, giving the spaces a quieter, more tactile quality.

Bedrooms and Sensory Experience

In the bedrooms, the material palette shifts to become simpler and more refined. Muted tones of grey, burnt orange, and blackened wood feature prominently. "In the bedrooms, the focus moves towards comfort, tactility and a quieter sensory experience," said Engroba.

Materials become softer and lighting more controlled. The overall atmosphere is more intimate, designed to create a retreat within the city. The photography for the project was provided by Pion Studio.