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The Balmoral has existed for several years as one of many traditional hotels and guesthouses just outside the centre of Harrogate. Larger than the majority of its neighbours, with 23 rooms, and benefiting from an elevated position it already had much to distinguish it from the local accommodation crowd. However, thanks to a massive programme of refurbishment by new owners Philip and Steven Barker of Harrogate-based Innfocus Group, it is well and truly a set apart from the rest.
The newly beautified boutique hotel has received a whole new identity thanks to branding and interior design specialist Studio 48.
The programme of refurbishment has so far reached the main public and around half of the bedrooms, with the final renovations due to be completed by the end of the summer. It is hoped that the all new Balmoral experience will appeal to a wider customer base, and help the hotel realise its potential, as Gabriel Murray, head of Studio 48 explains; “The aim has been to re-establish the brand and the whole experience in order to appease local and travel destination customers. The concept is aimed at the more mature, aspirational guest. The main aspect of the project has been the refurbishment of all 23 rooms, which will be completed as part of the eight week programme, the creation of the new lobby with cosmopolitan bar and an all day food and beverage concept.
We are also exploring a new basement space for function rooms, with the possibility of creating a members bar.”
The first change that is most noticeable on the approach to the hotel is the impressive rejuvenated exterior. The Balmoral now stands out not only sue to its size and position, but its freshly scrubbed stone façade and landscaped gardens, complete with funky moulded alfresco furniture and new signage. Guests entering the building through a futuristic glass portal and appear on the other side in the stylish world that is the Balmorals new reception and lounge. The entire design architecture of the hotel has been carefully balanced in order to create the perfect ambience - one of welcoming yet luxurious modern opulence.
Within the Balmoral is the Grille Restaurant. This is the second in what is an expanding line of newly created Grille Brasseries. The first Hoxton Grille opened in September 2006, as part of Pret a Manger founder Sinclair Beecham’s Hoxton Hotel. The concept, created by John Pallagi and Simon Wright – the team behind the Room Restaurant brand - has been specifically tailored to work as part of independent hotel projects.
“We have created a win-win situation for ourselves and the hotel owners,” comments Wright. “The Grille has its own identity, but works in tandem with the hotels position and direction, providing hotel guests with a great restaurant and bar without them having to worry about the running of food and beverage operations”.
Studio 48 are also credited with the design and branding for the recently launched ‘The Grille’ chain, which hopes to bring a little of the style and originality of New York and Paris Bistros to the UK.
Developing the scheme already implemented in the Hoxton site, the Harrogate Grille is a comfortable and modern space that works well with its historic Victorian surroundings.
A palette of pale mustard and blue has been used here which, along with tub chairs and leather banquettes, give the restaurant a timeless, classic feel.
Exposed brickwork, original Victorian bay windows and stunning black and white photography by David Sutcliffe complete the picture.
Indeed this is true of the Balmoral concept as a whole, which is modern and driven in its aspirations but with quality and relaxed service at its core.
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