Bridging Quayside’s past and present

The hotel comprises two blocks. The taller, ‘L’ shaped building features guest rooms in an efficient arrangement, and reflects the scale of the Grade I listed High Level Bridge and neighbouring Quayside blocks. The lower block complements the historical design of the Grade II* listed Quayside Bar and is positioned to maximise views of the river. The hotel’s carefully scaled façades integrate it with its physical context.

The building’s appearance draws reference from the industrial heritage of rich local precedents, including the prominent Turnbull’s Warehouse and historic buildings along Sandhill Road. We chose to use textured, buff brick and accented it with dark bronze vertical elements to emphasise the façade’s rhythm, which echoes the form of the High Level Bridge. Sedum roofs increase biodiversity and enrich the hotel’s appearance from vantage points across the city.

We designed the hotel’s entrance as an ‘internal street’, accessible from both the Quayside and the street above, to re-activate historic connections to the river. The use of glazing at both the ground and first floors creates a sense of openness, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior. From the outside, this showcases the bright, double-height space, inviting exploration, and from the inside it maximises the impressive views of the river and bridges.

We chose a flexible internal layout that can be adapted for different events or activities, providing environments for guests to relax, socialise or work. In the centre of the ‘street’ is an elegant, curved metal staircase that leads up to the mezzanine level. This acts as an internal terrace that is home to a conference breakout space, meeting rooms and the “Big Ideas Space” (a creative meeting and event space), all with exceptional views.