Luca Virgilio, General Manager Of The Dorchester, London in conversation with Renae
In this exclusive episode of Where2FromHere, Luca Virgilio, the distinguished General Manager of The Dorchester London, returns for an in-depth conversation with Renae Leith-Manos, offering an insider’s look at the legendary hotel’s most ambitious transformation in decades.
Luca, known for his visionary leadership in luxury hospitality, last joined Renae from Rome’s Hotel Eden, where he led the celebrated renovation of one of Italy’s most storied hotels. He was at the helm of another monumental project, leading the recent extensive, multi-million-pound reinvention of The Dorchester, ensuring it remains at the pinnacle of global luxury for generations to come.
For nearly a century, The Dorchester has been one of the world’s most celebrated five-star hotels, synonymous with timeless British elegance, impeccable service, and an illustrious guest list spanning royalty, Hollywood legends, and global elites. However, in today’s ever-evolving luxury landscape, even the most iconic properties must innovate while preserving their soul.
Luca takes us behind the scenes of the hotel’s dramatic reinvention, sharing his insights into the revitalisation of the lobby, the reimagination of its world-famous cocktail bar, and the exquisite redesign of The Promenade—the hotel’s grand social heart which has been filled with incredible art work and even Liberace’s famed glass grand piano.
Stepping into the newly transformed lobby, guests are immediately immersed in a sophisticated yet welcoming space that blends classic grandeur with contemporary refinement.
Celebrated French interiors designer Pierre-Yves Rochon worked meticulously to maintain The Dorchester’s legendary charm while introducing subtle modern touches, from custom chandeliers to luxurious fabrics, all carefully curated to enhance the guest experience.
The Promenade, Artist’s Bar and forecourt have been completely re-imagined and brought into the modern era. The result is a space that remains unmistakably and elegantly The Dorchester but feels refreshingly new.
In this podcast conversation with Renae, Luca explains one of the most talked-about elements of the transformation is the new Vesper Bar, a tribute to the hotel’s long-standing relationship with James Bond author Ian Fleming, who famously coined the “Vesper Martini.” A fabulous cocktail list highlights and celebrates past famous guests at The Dorchester.
The bar’s new design seamlessly merges Art Deco glamour with a vibrant, contemporary energy, making it a destination in itself for both guests and London’s elite social scene.
Another key highlight is the complete reimagination of The Promenade, The Dorchester’s iconic all-day dining and gathering space. With opulent floral-inspired interiors, it exudes an elegant yet lively atmosphere, providing the perfect setting for afternoon tea, intimate conversations, or indulgent dining.
The updated design ensures The Promenade continues to be one of London’s most sought-after meeting place while honoring its storied and legendary past.
Beyond the physical transformation, Luca also delves into the evolving expectations of modern luxury travelers—what high-net-worth guests demand in 2025, how The Dorchester is staying ahead of global trends, and the delicate balance of preserving heritage while embracing innovation.
With a distinguished career spanning Switzerland, Monte-Carlo, Rome, and London, Luca is no stranger to leading world-class hotels through transformative change. A Les Roches Switzerland graduate and recipient of Best Italian Hotelier 2021, his expertise and deep understanding of luxury hospitality continue to shape The Dorchester’s future as a global icon.
As the hotel embarks on this bold new chapter, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into one of the most anticipated luxury renovations in recent history.
Whether you’re a luxury traveler, a hospitality professional, or simply fascinated by the art of fine living, this episode is an absolute must-listen.
