Our Brief
A world-famous hotel brand: much-loved, and synonymous with quality – refreshed in one of the UK’s most dynamic cities. This is the vision for Hilton, Leeds City. We were appointed as Interior Designers for the refurbishment of 52 ensuite guestrooms, and the refresh of the public areas which include the Bar, Lounge, Restaurant, Reception and Ground Floor Lobby. And given our previous experience with the Hilton brand – it’s was an opportunity we were delighted to accept!
The hotel is right at the heart of Leeds. Close to shopping, cultural activities, and with excellent transport links, it welcomes tourists and business customers alike. Built in 1971, the building features a glass atrium at the front.
We had some challenges to overcome with our design. The fully glazed public areas are perfect for guests to work in as they are flooded with natural light, however that makes it tricky to create atmosphere. Catering to a variety of different audiences can also be a challenge and finally as always our own ambition of creating an exceptional and memorable guest experience.
Our Approach
As with most of our projects, we kick-started the creative process by researching the city of Leeds. Our research showed the energy and eclecticism of the city; a place of contrasts, where historic industry meets modern creativity. It’s home to world-class cultural institutions, a thriving independent food scene.
Our design narrative was inspired by the energy of the city epitomised by the River Aire that runs through it, we incorporated movement through texture and pattern, and organic form across the FF&E. Hints of the city’s industrial heritage are represented in bespoke carpets and use of metalwork details.
From a functional perspective, we used bespoke screens to diffuse and guide light through the space, creating a comfortable atmosphere in areas flooded with light and heat from the glass atrium. The palette and materials throughout are warm and inviting.
The guest experience, is enhanced by breaking up the floor plan creating options, formal & casual dining, bar seating for socialising, quiet corners for working. These different zones are separated by decorative panels allowing vision through.
The theme of energy was continued in the guestroom and en-suite design. We paired neutral tones with pops of burnt orange and deep blue to carry on the warm and inviting feel. We continued to use organic forms here to invoke more movement through a selection of light fittings and bespoke casegood details.
The Results
When working with an iconic brand like Hilton, everything we do has to fit in with the overarching brand. Because we know Hilton well, from our work on the Glasgow Hotel, we knew exactly how to tie contemporary luxury in with our energetic narrative.
