The opening of The Corner London City in Aldgate last autumn brought something different to this part of east London. Formerly the Qbic, transformed from a derelict office block into an eco-minded hotel, the rebrand brings changes, both architectural – knocking down walls to create an open-plan space – and sustainable, with multiple measures taken to give the hotel an even greener lease of life. A green heart, if you like.
As I enter with my sister, Maria, on a cold Friday afternoon and fiddle with the self-check-in screens, the young barman soon calls out instructions. Forget a painfully long wait in a luggage-filled lobby – this seconds-long transaction takes place in a fluid, all-in-one bar, restaurant, work hub, lounge and games room, with every available surface dotted with healthy-looking houseplants. Grey and white hexagonal tiles and wooden floorboards are used to define areas, along with clusters of eclectic, mid-century-style pieces, including benches and chairs upholstered in bright shades of orange and lime, tempered by inky blues. Guests tap away at laptops or socialise at large round tables, cosy two-seaters, banquettes and sofas.
