
Revitalizing a Historic Space: The Redesign of the “John & Yoko” Suite
When we were commissioned to redesign this boutique hotel’s “John & Yoko” suite, we knew we were facing a unique design challenge. This wasn’t merely about updating a room—it was about preserving the spirit of an iconic moment in history.
In 1969, this very suite hosted John Lennon and Yoko Ono during their famous “Bed-In for Peace,” held from May 26 to June 2. As part of their non-violent anti-war protest, the couple invited the media into their intimate space to discuss world peace. Instead of simply recreating the original period décor, the design team took a fresh approach, drawing inspiration from the diverse places the couple had lived in or visited—London, New York, Tokyo, and New Delhi. This approach gave us the freedom to focus on preserving the unique energy that defined that historic stay.
Central to the redesign was the rearrangement of the furniture. Traditionally, John and Yoko had pushed their bed against the far window to create an open space complemented by a minimal seating arrangement. In contrast, the original suite featured a predominantly red Kerman rug with all the furniture pressed against the walls. Our design aimed to honor this layout while infusing modern elements that resonated with the couple’s legacy.
To add a layer of cultural richness, we chose a design inspired by the city of Agra—a major center for high-quality carpets since the Mughal Empire. Agra carpets, known for their classic luxury, echo the opulent palaces of classical India. This choice was especially meaningful as Lennon often credited his trips to India as some of the most productive periods of his life. His time studying with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and the creative inspiration he drew from that experience left an indelible mark on his work.
Today, the “John & Yoko” suite stands as a harmonious blend of history, art, and modern design—a space where the legacy of peace and artistic exploration continues to inspire every guest who walks through its door.




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