During World War II Messel served as an officer alongside fellow artist Julian Trevelyan. Messel went on to win international acclaim for his exquisite taste and mastery of period style in revues, plays, films, interiors, buildings, musicals, operas and ballets, becoming one of the most sought-after and highly-paid scenery and costume designers of his era. The namesake suite that he designed at the Dorchester Hotel is preserved as part of Britain's national heritage.