Furnishings, artworks and accessories will all be auctioned for the first time in the hotel’s nearly 100-year history in a two-day sale on 21 and 22 June led by hospitality auctioneer Pro Auction.
The auction will cover every aspect of furniture in each room, including couches, lamps, carpets, chandeliers, and draperies, as well as writing desks, televisions, headboards, and other decorative accessories.
Furniture and fittings from The Promenade and The Bar at The Dorchester will feature in the sale in addition to signed prints by HRH the Prince of Wales, Derek Rangecroft and Heidi Koenig, luxury Italian lighting and chandeliers from Laudarte and Barovier & Toso, and furniture by Restall Brown and others.
Items to be put up for auction will also include ottomans upholstered in velvet and silk and trimmed with fringe; marble-topped coffee tables, and the contents of the bar and promenade designed by renowned architect and designer Thierry Despont.
“This major renovation project for the hotel brings with it the opportunity to purchase a piece of the hotel's history at auction as the owners pave the way for a new chapter for The Dorchester,” says Simon Rose of Pro Auction.
The auction is part of a comprehensive renovation of the hotel, its biggest in more than 30 years.
It will begin with the entrance to the hotel, as well as The Promenade and The Bar at The Dorchester and two guest floors, with work expected to be completed by September
Designer Pierre-Yves Rochon is reimagining the hotel entrance, The Promenade and the new guest rooms and suites, while Martin Brudnizki Design Studio has been appointed to re-create the bar.
The hotel will remain open throughout the refurbishment, with afternoon tea served in the Orchid Room and a new rooftop restaurant set to open in the spring. The Grill, Alain Ducasse and China Tang restaurants remain open as normal.
The auction takes place at the hotel on the 21st and 22nd June 2022 commencing at 10.30am each day. Online bidding will also be available via a live webcast. viewing is by arrangement with the auctioneers and the catalogue is available to download from the bidding website.