The beds, however, are magnificent, and in common with many of the upmarket hotel groups Intercontinental have recognised their importance, and they have an almost theatrical presence. So unfortunately does the luggage, as the redesign has not encompassed enough thought about how the guest uses the room, and the wall of cupboards that provides an effective sound barrier between the bedroom and corridor does not house the luggage rack, allowing the theatricality of the bedroom to be spoiled.

Heavy curtains provide a complete and effective blackout, and the use of voluminous drapes, wallpaper and Louis style furniture create a very French and classical look to the bedrooms. Effective contemporary lighting and the provision of the now normal data sockets ensure that the classical appearance is not made at the cost of contemporary effectiveness, although I personally will welcome the day all hotels provide wireless connectivity to the web rather than having to reconfigure my laptop to connect through the idiosyncrasies of hotel switchboard systems.