Few buildings in East London tell a story quite like The Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch — once a magistrates’ court, now one of the area’s most distinctive luxury hotels. At its helm is Michael Lavizani, a hospitality leader with a deep understanding of Shoreditch’s ever-evolving energy. From preserving heritage architecture to championing sustainability and local creativity, Lavizani’s approach blends refinement with authenticity. We caught up with Michael Lavizani to talk about the hotel’s transformation, the soul of Shoreditch, and what defines great hospitality in London today.
You manage one of East London’s most recognisable hotels, The Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch. What first drew you to this part of the city’s hospitality scene?
Having studied in London in the mid-1980s, I’ve always been fascinated by the city’s ability to reinvent itself. East London, in particular, has undergone a remarkable transformation — from its industrial roots to becoming one of the capital’s most creative and dynamic districts. I was drawn to Shoreditch because I wanted to play a part in that ongoing story, contributing to the area’s distinctive hospitality landscape and helping it continue to thrive.
You’ve seen Shoreditch evolve from a gritty creative hub into one of London’s most in-demand destinations. How has that transformation influenced the way you run a hotel here?
Shoreditch has retained its independent spirit while embracing sophistication — and that’s very much how we operate The Courthouse Hotel. Our focus is on combining authenticity and creativity with strong values: hard work, genuine hospitality, and a warm, friendly service that reflects the character of East London. We want every guest to experience that unique blend of edge and elegance that defines Shoreditch today.
As General Manager of The Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch, what defines the guest experience — and how do you keep it feeling local and authentic?
Our team is made up of many individuals from the local community, and that connection helps us deliver a truly Shoreditch-style hospitality experience. We celebrate diversity, creativity, and inclusivity — values that are at the heart of this area. The result is a guest experience that feels both polished and personal, reflecting the multicultural energy that makes Shoreditch so distinctive.
Running a hotel in a cultural district like Shoreditch means balancing luxury with creativity. How do you ensure guests still feel the neighbourhood’s independent spirit when they walk through your doors?
We’re privileged to be the custodians of one of Shoreditch’s most iconic landmarks — a former police station and courthouse with over a century of history. The building’s past gives it a sense of authenticity that can’t be replicated. We’ve taken great care to preserve that character while offering the comfort and refinement expected of a luxury hotel. In a sense, we bridge the old and the new — where historic architecture meets modern design and where the stories of the past continue to inspire today’s guests.
What’s been the most challenging — and most rewarding — part of leading such an iconic property?
The biggest challenge is maintaining the balance between preserving the building’s rich heritage and meeting the expectations of contemporary travellers. The greatest reward is seeing how our guests and the local community connect with this space — a place that once served a very different purpose but now brings people together in the spirit of hospitality. It’s an honour to lead a team that helps continue the legacy of such a storied landmark.
Sustainability and innovation are key topics in modern hospitality. How are you integrating those values into operations at The Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch?
Sustainability is at the forefront of our operational priorities. We’re actively working to align the hotel with modern environmental standards — from energy-efficient systems to waste reduction initiatives — and are exploring recognition through the Green Tourism accreditation. Our goal is to ensure that the property not only honours its past but also operates responsibly for the future.
What qualities do you look for when building a strong hospitality team that reflects Shoreditch’s energy?
We look for people who embody the same vibrancy, creativity, and authenticity that define Shoreditch itself. Passion, professionalism, and pride in what they do are essential. A genuine love for people and for the community makes all the difference — it’s what transforms good service into memorable hospitality.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of London’s boutique and lifestyle hotel scene — and where do you see Shoreditch’s place in that story?
London’s boutique and lifestyle hotel market continues to grow, fuelled by travellers who want more than just a place to stay — they want an experience. Shoreditch will remain at the forefront of that movement, offering a blend of heritage, creativity, and individuality that few places can match. I’m excited for The Courthouse Hotel to continue being part of that journey — honouring our history while embracing the next chapter in East London’s ever-evolving story.
→ Discover more about hotels in Shoreditch in our Best Hotels in Shoreditch guide.