Edinburgh hotel unveils private art collection

A boutique Edinburgh hotel is opening its permanent installation of artworks from the collection of Richard H Driehaus.

The Bonham Hotel will feature 35 exquisite pieces of art in its public areas, including the lobby, No.35 at The Bonham restaurant, the Library, and the Dean suite.

Pieces include historic lighting and furnishings by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Shapland & Petter, J&L Lobmeyr, and paintings by Howard Chandler Christy, Henry Singleton, and Emmie Stewart Wood among others.

The Tiffany floor lamp with a Nasturtium shade is thought to be the only one of its kind in Scotland making its move to The Bonham quite exceptional.

Richard H Driehaus, founder of Driehaus Capital Management and the Driehaus Museum in Chicago, is an avid art and antique collector. He handpicked the pieces now on permanent view in The Bonham Hotel.

The garden has also been renovated and now features a centrepiece water fountain and art sculptures of the Four Seasons easily seen from the hotel’s Library.

Richard said: ‘I collect with a passion for preservation, purchasing works that inspire, are significant historically, or represent an important piece of history,.

‘Artworks introduce and encourage artistic expression. They deepen one’s sense of place and identity within a wider context of time and culture.

‘Rather than stowing away these objects, I believe the patina and nicks they acquire with age and use are part of their history and gives them their character. It gives me great pleasure to share part of my collection with The Bonham Hotel’s visitors and its guests.’

A The Tiffany floor lamp with a Nasturtium shade on show at the Bonham (Photo: Paul Chappells)

Richard’s input also extends to Bonham’s bar, where he carefully selected his favourite wines as part of a new menu.

The hotel bar has implemented a special whisky cabinet housing the superb Scottish whiskies in partnership with The Macallan. This prestige collection includes signature Macallan 18-years-old sherry oak cask, Auchentoshan 21-year-old from sherry and bourbon casks, and Laphroaig Islay single malt Lore.

Douglas Campbell, general manager at The Bonham Hotel, said: ‘Thanks to the successful refurbishment, the hotel looks better than ever, and the art and lighting pieces inject new energy into the building.

‘Guests from near and far are welcome to enjoy the wonderful artwork now on display. We are proud to house some of Richard’s personal collection.’

Earlier this year, the boutique hotel underwent an extensive refurbishment. All 49 bedrooms, the hotel’s public areas, and the restaurant were renovated to showcase many of their original features including wood panelling, and a stunning hand-painted ceiling.

Visit www.thebonham.com for more information or to book.

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