According to the history books, the first ever casino in London opened in 1828. It was located on Curzon Street in Mayfair, and despite the city changing drastically over the following 197 years, it still occupies the site to this day. This is a key point to consider when looking at the global casino scene.
Across countries like the US, Monaco, China, and Germany, some of the best casinos in the world right now were only built in the last fifty years. We’re talking about casinos like the Venetian Macao, which opened in 2007, the Bellagio Casino in Las Vegas, which opened in 1998, and the Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, which opened in 2010. These are beautiful, luxurious casinos that radiate elegance, infused by their respective designs and decor.
But how much of that decor was actually inspired by London? As a whole, London’s architecture is some of the most eye-catching in the world. With prime spots like the Battersea Power Station and the infamous Big Ben, the city is a sight to behold, and this doesn’t stop when it comes to the casinos. Whether it’s the Crockfords Club in Mayfair, The Hippodrome in Soho, or The Ritz Club in Piccadilly, so many casino establishments in London are known for their luxurious and timeless architectural styles and decor – the same styles that have undoubtedly had an influence on global casino decor.
What is the London Look?
For casino regulars in the UK, London might not always be the prime destination, but you can discover your local casino here, says William Macmaster, mainly due to the fact that there’s a strong online presence, and that it’s a bustling metropolis with a huge choice. But one of the best things about the casinos is that, as soon as you enter, you’re greeted by a sense of calm.
Through the decor and interior design, the casinos have created an atmosphere that helps you to escape the hectic energy of the city and focus your attention on the games at hand. This is largely achieved through the use of soft lighting – including lamps on each table – plush seating, and elegant furnishings designed to provide a sense of luxury and tranquillity.
Just look at The Ritz Club. As we mentioned before, this is one of the most popular casinos in the city, and yet when you’re inside, there’s a quiet elegance that makes it feel more like a retreat. Whether it’s the opulent golden chandeliers or the deep, comfortable armchairs, every detail feels crafted to make you feel like you’re stepping into a world of timeless sophistication, and the same can be said for numerous other elite establishments.
Another aspect of London casinos to note is the conversation starters. Across the city, many casinos utilise art and decor to serve as conversation starters or focal points. From classic paintings adorning the walls to contemporary sculptures placed strategically around the casino floor, every item is carefully selected and infused into the space to add a sense of character.
This approach asks people to see the casino as more of a destination, where you’re encouraged to take your time and appreciate the aesthetics, rather than simply walk in, play a few games, and leave. In other words, they make the casino setting an experience in itself, and that’s something global casinos have taken on board.
The Influence on Global Casino Decor
Let’s start by looking at the casino in Las Vegas – perhaps the most iconic gambling city in the world. Whether it’s the Bellagio or the Venetian, each casino in this city has taken some inspiration from the grandeur of London casinos, with many also choosing to install conversation starters like paintings and sculptures.
In the Bellagio, for instance, one of the most notable decor pieces is the grand chandelier, which can be found in the lobby. This is a stunning glass art installation created by Dale Chihuly, and it works to echo the ornate lighting found in London’s high-end casinos like The Ritz Club.
With marble floors, velvet seating, and luxury carpeting also found in the gaming rooms, it’s clear that the warm, inviting atmosphere of London casinos has also influenced the designers, with an understanding that players are getting away from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas streets, and want to feel welcome in a place that oozes calmness and tranquillity.
When it comes to the Venetian, one of the big things the designers seemed to learn from London Casinos is that casinos should be timeless, with a blend of both classical and modern touches. With the interior highlighted by gilded accents and mosaic-tiled floors, it’s clear that the Venetian is lending a hand from casinos like the Empire Casino and the Hippodrome, both of which have blended classic architectural details with a modern gaming experience.
Conclusion
Whichever way you look at it, London casinos have undoubtedly played a big part in shaping global casino decor, with many of them being the perfect reference for designers to look at, learn from, and infuse into their own styles. That’s not to say that the other casinos don’t have their own character, because they do. But when you look closer, small details and delicate finishes prove that, in the end, all roads lead to London.
Great Job Sebastian Bickley & the Team @ Our Culture Source link for sharing this story.
