Simon Drake appointed general manager for the Other House

Simon Drake has been appointed general manager of the Other House, a new brand of all-suite hotels, the first of which will be opening in London’s South Kensington in spring 2022.

Joining from the same role at the Mandrake in Fitzrovia, he will then oversee the launch of a second Other House site in Covent Garden the following year. He was also previously general manager at the Randolph in Oxford and hotel manager at the Conrad London.

Naomi Heaton, chief executive of the Other House, said: “Simon is full of drive, energy and enthusiasm, with a huge personality and complete commitment to the guest experience. This will be a perfect fit with our bold, ground-breaking and inspiring brand of residents’ clubs. His experience will be invaluable in establishing the Other House as a market leader in contemporary London accommodation and welcoming this new chapter of hospitality.”

Drake added: “I am thrilled to be joining the Other House team, being part of a new era of hospitality embracing slow travel and any length stays with sustainability, technology and memorable experiences. I look forward to steering the success of this new brand.”

The Other House is described as a lifestyle brand of residents’ clubs, positioned as a second home for guests, without a hefty price tag. The group is owned by the Portfolio Club, a joint venture between real estate investment advisory firm London Central Portfolio and Netherlands pension provider APG. The first property will open following development of the former Harrington Hall in South Kensington with the Wellington Block in Covent Garden to follow. Further acquisitions are planned.