A Creative Escape At The Heart Of Shoreditch

At the tail end of April, with the vibrant energy of London's East End spilling onto the streets, Avesso Magazine had the pleasure of staying at Montcalm East Hotel just a night before Lily McIntosh would take the stage for her eagerly awaited photography masterclass in which we would also take part. This unique hotel, situated in the heart of Shoreditch, is not just a place to rest—it's an experience. It draws inspiration from the creative heart of the neighbourhood, where the boundary between art and life is wonderfully blurred. There, we experienced the contemporary comfort, and the creative pulse Montcalm East is known for.

From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere felt like a visual art piece—modern, striking, and effortlessly cool. The hotel's architecture, with its iconic diamond-shaped exterior, mirrors the spirit of Shoreditch itself—bold and unapologetically artistic. Inside, the vibe continues, with clean lines, contemporary furnishings, and an energy that constantly pulses with creative potential. And the best part? Staying at the hotel feels like finding yourself in an art gallery, with a permanent collection and rotating exhibitions displayed throughout the common areas.

I stayed on the top floor, the 17th, in the Sky High King Room; the views alone were enough to make the night feel special. The city sprawled before me in a canvas of lights, with London's skyline stretching beyond the horizon. I could spot some of London's main tourist points from here. The floor-to-ceiling windows made me feel like I was in the heart of everything, yet perfectly cocooned. The room was just as impressive—sleek, spacious, and beautifully designed, offering the perfect balance of luxury and comfort. It was an experience I won't soon forget.

The customer service was impeccable—from offering me a glass of champagne when I checked in to knocking on my door to check if I was happy with my stay or to see if I needed anything extra. A standout touch was the water stations on each floor, offering still or sparkling options so I could effortlessly refill the beautiful glass bottle from my room. Thoughtful, ethical, and completely sustainable.

Montcalm East is not just a stylish stay; it's also a sanctuary for creativity. The hotel's "Photographers in Residence" programme, a collaboration with Ravensbourne University, is a testament to this commitment. It brings the spirit of artistic expression into the heart of the hotel.

The in-house Photo Lab is a creative playground where hotel guests and visitors can explore their photographic visions. Whether you're looking to print photos straight from your smartphone, book a professional photoshoot, or simplyimmerse yourself in the work of others, there's something for everyone. The Lab also hosts exclusive events and masterclasses—open to non-guests—often led by rising talents like in-house photographer Lily McIntosh.

Over the past few months, Lily has been running a series of workshops aimed at demystifying the art of photography. But these aren't your typical "how-to" sessions—they're an invitation to dive deep into the creative process. Whether it'sperfecting your lighting, refining your editing skills, or experimenting with unconventional techniques, Lily's workshops are as much about embracing your creative intuition as they are about technical mastery.

Lily told us, "The main thing I want is for people to come here and take as many photos as possible. I feel like that's the best way to practice, and I think it's just fun to experiment with unique techniques that people haven't done before. It helps people find their style and what they like to do in photography."

Feel free to bring your own camera if you have one, but it's by no means required — you can always use the studio'sequipment to get hands-on and make the most of the experience. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just curious to try something new, the Photo Lab is open to all. For upcoming dates and events, keep an eye on the hotel's website and social channels to stay in the loop.

Beyond the hotel's creative spaces, Montcalm East's Marlowe Restaurant serves modern British cuisine in a setting that perfectly complements the hotel's vibe. The food is fresh, seasonal, and thoughtfully prepared—just like the atmosphere here. Whether you're starting your day with breakfast or winding down over dinner, there's a real sense of refinement that matches the creative pulse of the neighbourhood.

The Bokeh Spa also offers a soothing retreat featuring a pool, sauna, and a full range of treatments, making it the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration or photography.

And then there's the neighbourhood itself—Shoreditch is London’s vibrant arts district, and stepping outside the hotel is like stepping into a living gallery. The streets hum with the energy of street art, new-age tech startups, and the ever-present hum of London's creative class. Whether you're drawn to the vintage treasures of Brick Lane, the flower-filled charm of Columbia Road, or the endless pop-up galleries that seem to appear at every corner, Shoreditch offers an endless supply of inspiration. It's a neighbourhood where ideas are born, creativity is encouraged, and every walk feels like an immersion into the artistic soul of London.

Our stay at Montcalm East was more than just a night away — it was an immersion into the creative heartbeat of London. Between the panoramic skyline views, the invigorating photography sessions, and the ever-inspiring streets of Shoreditch right at our doorstep, every moment felt like part of a larger artistic journey. Montcalm East doesn’t just offer a place to sleep; it offers a space where ideas are sparked, talents are nurtured, and creativity finds a home. As I left, I carried not just memories, but a renewed sense of inspiration — framed perfectly by the experience.