The reopening of the historic Café Royal in London, UK, has been pushed back to October as work continues on its transformation into a 159-bedroom luxury hotel.

It had been intended the hotel would open last month (June) ahead of the 2012 Games, with the 800sq m (8,611sq ft) Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre among its facilities.

However, general manager Louis Sailer confirmed the launch date had been delayed due to the "complex and sensitive" nature of the Grade II-listed building's refurbishment.

Sailer said: "We had initially hoped and intended that the Café Royal hotel would be open this summer in time for the Olympics.

"During the extensive works, we have uncovered a number of historical treasures and we are working with David Chipperfield Architects and Donald Insall Associates to carefully restore these parts of the building. For us, quality and execution are paramount."

Once complete, the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre day spa will span two floors and has been developed in conjunction with Netherlands-based 4SeasonsSpa.

A 19m indoor swimming pool will be at the heart of the lower floor of the wellbeing facility, with five treatment rooms also included - three of which will feature whirlpools.

The lower floor will also offer a wet room; private and public hammams; a dry sauna; and a watsu pool. A yoga studio and a gym feature on the upper floor.

Mace has also worked on the transformation of Café Royal, which is one of two inaugural members of The Set - a new hotel collection established by Alfred and Georgi Akirov.

Details: www.macegroup.com
Details: www.4seasonsspa-pro.com (4SeasonsSpa)