The Savoy, a Fairmont Hotel, is undergoing restoration (credit Fairmont Hotels & Resorts).

The Savoy Hotel, owned by the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts group, is to close this month (December) in order for a £100 million restoration programme to commence – one of the most ambitious programmes in the history of London.

Included in the programme is the upgrading of suites, and renovation of guest rooms, corridors and public areas. The River Restaurant, with its views of the Embankment Gardens and the Thames, will also be refurbished.

Speaking in May when the renovation programme was announced, Kiaran MacDonald, General Manager of The Savoy, said: “For us, the most important thing is to honour the art deco heritage and traditional English design of the hotel, while upgrading the property to meet the expectations of today’s most discerning guests.

“When The Savoy reopens we hope to set new British standards for excellence in design, décor and personalised service.”

The restoration is expected to take around 16 months, with an opening date due sometime in 2009.