The Elysium Collection, a new luxury hospitality brand led by CEO James Houlston, will debut from autumn 2026 with a focus on heritage properties and “informal luxury.” The collection’s first site, the 56-bedroom Elysium St Mawes, will open this autumn following the transformation of the historic Ship and Castle Hotel on Cornwall’s harbourfront.
The Shift Toward Time-Conscious Luxury
Modern travelers are increasingly prioritizing time as their most valuable asset, according to CEO James Houlston. The Elysium Collection aims to address this by removing the friction often associated with high-end stays. Houlston, who was responsible for transforming The Swan Hotel in the Lake District and St Michaels Resort in Falmouth, notes that the brand’s guiding principle is to curate every detail so guests can “switch off” immediately upon arrival.
Pro Tip: Look for hotels that offer “seamless arrivals” and pre-prepared rooms.
Heritage Restoration and Architectural Integrity
The collection’s strategy relies on adaptive reuse—taking historic buildings and updating them for contemporary use. Each property is developed in collaboration with 3DReid, the studio behind Gleneagles. Rather than a “cookie-cutter” approach, the design team uses a mix of British makers, natural materials, and restored architectural features to ensure each hotel reflects its specific geography.
According to the company, this design philosophy is intended to create a “home from home” atmosphere. By avoiding formulaic interiors, the brand aims to make properties feel grounded in their local surroundings, whether in the Lake District, Surrey, or Cornwall.
Ingredient-Led Dining and Local Provenance
Executive Chef Stephane Delourme, who spent over two decades as Head Chef at Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant, is overseeing the culinary direction for the collection. The dining model emphasizes “ingredient-led” menus that change based on what is grown, reared, and sourced nearby.
In Cornwall, this translates to a reliance on day-boat fish and coastal shellfish. Delourme’s approach moves away from formal fine dining, favoring a style that aligns with the brand’s “informal luxury” philosophy: generous, simple, and connected to the landscape.
Wellness as a Destination-Specific Experience
Wellness in the Elysium Collection is not a standardized gym-and-pool offering. Instead, each site will feature a spa experience tailored to its location. At the debut property, Elysium St Mawes, the brand has partnered with TEMPLESPA to provide treatments focused on restoration and calm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the first Elysium Collection hotel open? The first property, Elysium St Mawes, is scheduled to open this autumn.
- Where will the other hotels be located? The collection plans to expand into Surrey and the Lake District from autumn 2026 and into 2027.
- Who is leading the culinary team? Executive Chef Stephane Delourme, formerly of Rick Stein’s restaurant group, is heading the dining strategy.
- What design firm is working on the project? The collection is collaborating with 3DReid, the architecture studio behind Gleneagles.
Are you planning a stay at one of the upcoming Elysium properties? Share your thoughts on the “informal luxury” trend in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on UK travel openings.