Nestled on Upper Berkeley Street in London’s elegant Marylebone district stands a refined Georgian townhouse with a literary pedigree. Once the home of Henry Austen, beloved brother to Jane Austen, this historic property has been transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel that whispers tales of Regency London through its carefully preserved walls.
The visionary behind this transformation is Russell Sage and his eponymous design studio. Sage, a celebrated British interior designer known for his work with luxury establishments across the United Kingdom, approached the project with reverence for its historical significance. His design philosophy for Henry’s Townhouse masterfully balances period authenticity with contemporary luxury, creating spaces that feel both timeless and fresh.
Walking through the front door, visitors are transported to early 19th century London, when Henry Austen – banker, militia officer, and eventually clergyman – welcomed his famous sister during her London visits. The property’s seven bedrooms, each named for a member of the Austen family, feature unique designs that incorporate antiques, custom furnishings, and artwork that subtly references Jane Austen’s era and works.
The Georgian architecture with its classic proportions remains intact, with original fireplaces and ornate moldings serving as reminders of the building’s heritage. Yet Russell Sage has ensured modern comforts are seamlessly integrated, creating a luxury experience rather than a museum piece. The communal spaces, particularly “The Pantry,” offer guests convivial areas to gather, much as the Austens might have done two centuries ago.
What makes Henry’s Townhouse particularly special in London’s crowded hospitality landscape is its intimate scale and narrative depth. Unlike conventional hotels, this exclusive address can be booked in its entirety or by individual room, providing a rare glimpse into how the upper echelons of Regency society lived. Each design choice, from the carefully selected fabrics to the curated art pieces, contributes to a sensory experience that connects guests to both the literary legacy of the Austens and the architectural heritage of Georgian London.
As London continues to evolve, Henry’s Townhouse stands as a testament to thoughtful preservation and adaptation – a place where history lives on not as a dusty artifact but as a vibrant, immersive experience curated by one of Britain’s foremost design talents. This is a stunning location and is available to rent on a short or long-term basis.
