In a strategic move that underscores its commitment to growing its premium and lifestyle offerings, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the signing of a dual-branded hotel project in London’s vibrant Waterloo district. This exciting development will bring together two of IHG’s flagship brands—voco and Hotel Indigo—adding more than 350 rooms to one of the capital’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Set to open in late 2028, the dual-branded hotel will comprise voco London – Waterloo and Hotel Indigo & Suites London – Waterloo. This landmark project not only strengthens IHG’s presence in central London but also marks the first-ever “& Suites” version of Hotel Indigo in Europe, signaling a new era of boutique-style accommodations that cater to modern travelers’ diverse needs.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
The project is being developed in collaboration with Palm Holdings, a renowned name in the hospitality and real estate sectors. This is not the first partnership between IHG and Palm Holdings—the two have previously worked on successful ventures such as the Garner Hotel Haymarket Edinburgh. Their shared vision is clear: to create vibrant, sustainable, and guest-centric hospitality experiences in key urban locations.
Willemijn Geels, VP Development Europe at IHG, highlighted the significance of the new signing:
“Our dual-branded property in the heart of Waterloo marks a significant milestone in IHG’s growth strategy. It unites two celebrated brands and introduces an exciting new offering to Europe with Hotel Indigo & Suites.”
What to Expect from Each Brand
voco London – Waterloo
The voco brand, known for its playful personality and upscale feel, will bring 182 guest rooms to the project. Since its launch in 2018, voco has gained a reputation for offering a reliably upscale experience with a relaxed and informal vibe. Guests can expect unique design touches, comfortable bedding, thoughtful amenities, and a commitment to sustainability throughout the hotel’s operations.
Hotel Indigo & Suites London – Waterloo
Hotel Indigo, on the other hand, draws inspiration from the local neighborhood to craft bespoke guest experiences. With 172 rooms and suites, this will be the first Hotel Indigo in Europe to incorporate the “& Suites” concept, offering a wider variety of room categories for longer stays, families, or guests seeking a little more space. Expect interiors that reflect the rich cultural and historical textures of Waterloo—whether it’s art referencing the nearby Southbank or furnishings inspired by the area’s industrial heritage.
Prime Location at the Heart of London
Few neighborhoods in London offer as much cultural richness and accessibility as Waterloo. The development’s location ensures that guests will be a short walk away from:
- The Southbank Centre
- National Theatre
- London Eye and London Aquarium
- Imperial War Museum
- Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
- An array of restaurants, pubs, markets, and indie coffee shops
Just as importantly, Waterloo Station—a major transport hub—is within close proximity, providing easy access to central London, the wider UK rail network, and even international travel connections.
Shared Amenities, Unique Experiences
Despite being two distinct hotels under one roof, voco and Hotel Indigo will share a suite of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. These include:
- A restaurant serving contemporary cuisine
- A cozy café and stylish bar
- A well-equipped gym
- A versatile business center
This thoughtful blend of shared infrastructure and unique branding enables IHG to cater to a wide variety of travelers—from business professionals and solo adventurers to families and long-stay guests—all under one roof.
Committed to Sustainability
One of the most compelling aspects of this development is its commitment to sustainable design and construction. The project is targeting a “BREEAM Excellent” certification, which places it among the highest-performing sustainable buildings in the UK.
To achieve this, the hotel will integrate eco-friendly systems such as:
- Air-source heat pumps
- On-site solar panels
- Complete avoidance of fossil fuel use for heating and energy
- Energy-efficient lighting and water systems
Ricky Kapoor, Managing Director of Palm Holdings, emphasized the sustainability angle:
“Sustainability is at the forefront of this project. We are proud to be working with IHG to deliver a hotel that is not only aesthetically unique and welcoming but also environmentally responsible.”
Strengthening IHG’s UK Footprint
With this new dual-branded development, IHG continues to solidify its position as one of the leading hospitality brands in the UK. Currently, IHG boasts:
- 363 open hotels in the UK and Ireland
- 33 hotels in the development pipeline
This project aligns with IHG’s broader strategy to grow its premium and lifestyle portfolio, which includes brands like Kimpton, InterContinental, and the recently launched Vignette Collection. By introducing new concepts like the Hotel Indigo & Suites, IHG demonstrates its agility in adapting to changing guest expectations, especially in urban hubs like London.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming voco London – Waterloo and Hotel Indigo & Suites London – Waterloo development represents much more than just an expansion of room inventory. It’s a reflection of where modern hospitality is heading—towards brand diversity, sustainable operations, and hyper-local experiences.
With its ideal location, eco-conscious design, and blend of global standards with local flavor, this project is poised to become a flagship destination for both domestic and international travelers visiting the UK’s capital.
As London continues to grow and evolve, IHG’s latest investment ensures that the city’s accommodation offerings are keeping pace—smart, stylish, and future-focused.
