Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…
Sal Gowili: The Ritz London, the iconic landmark conceived by renowned hotelier César Ritz, first opened its doors in 1906. It has deservedly taken its rightful place amongst the great hotels of the world and throughout its history has been at the heart of British society.
The Ritz owes its architectural design to the successful partnership formed in 1900 between Frenchman Charles Mewés and Englishman Arthur Davis. César Ritz’s innovations for the hotel were, at that time, quite unique with bathrooms for every guestroom, double glazing, a sophisticated ventilation system, and it was the first steel framed building of any significance in London. The Ritz was praised for its brilliant refinement of detail and articulation. Large copper lions stand proudly at each corner of the roof while ranks of soaring chimneys and projecting dormers cleverly break the skyline. With its French chateau style architecture and Louis XVI furnishings, the hotel was, according to César Ritz, “a small house to which I am proud to see my name attached”.
What is your brand best known for?
The Ritz London is a haven on Piccadilly, adjacent to Royal Green Park, Mayfair and St James’s, and is world-famous for its historic elegance, impeccable service and the finest of British traditions. The Ritz London is home to the two-Michelin-starred The Ritz Restaurant, one of the world’s most beautiful and prestigious dining rooms serving the finest of British seasonal. The legendary Palm Court serves quintessentially English Afternoon Tea. The hotel’s bedrooms and suites are refined with timeless elegance.
What has been a significant achievement in your company’s timeline?
The Ritz London is the only hotel to have a royal warrant from His Majesty The King, for services to banqueting and catering. In 2025, The Ritz Restaurant was awarded its second Michelin Star in the Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland and has been named Restaurant of the Year at the National Restaurant Awards – a testament to its enduring excellence and unforgettable dining experience.
Why do you love the brand?
The Ritz is a British institution and has stood the test of time. I’m so proud to play a part in the history of this great hotel – we are the custodians to carry it forward to be enjoyed for future generations to come.
Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?
Service is in the DNA of our team at The Ritz London. Our Ritz family of colleagues are passionate about delivering the very best experience to every guest who comes into The Ritz, every day.
What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?
We are excited to be joining a community which represents the best of British luxury and to share knowledge and make connections with brands with shared visions and values. Together we’re stronger and more impactful.
If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?
Definitely Burberry. This is an iconic brand with a great British heritage that has successfully evolved, remaining relevant and securing their voice with younger generations and new audiences, whilst remaining true to their core values. We would like to form a meaningful collaboration at the right time to celebrate the excellence of both of us.
Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?
The development of The Ritz London continues to progress well, evolving the vision of our founder, legendary hotelier César Ritz. The hotel will remain open throughout the project, with a managed and gradual transition to the new spaces. This inspired project will ensure that the unique essence of the hotel is retained, sympathetically restored and sensitively enhanced to reaffirm its status, for generations to come, as one of the world’s most iconic hotels.
theritzlondon.com
