FWP delivers first phase of Borrowdale Hotel's makeover

The first phase of a popular Lake District hotel’s major makeover has been completed – with more work set to get underway.

Architecture, design and masterplanning practice Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) has led on the refurbishment of the Borrowdale Hotel for one of Cumbria’s best-known hospitality groups.

Five bedrooms at the hotel, which is part of the family-run Lake District Hotels group, have now been completely refurbished as part of this project, which got underway in 2020.

The next phase will see four bedrooms get a makeover. FWP’s ground floor refurbishment of the Borrowdale is also set to get underway later in the year.

Kate Simmons, senior interior designer at FWP, says the look and feel of the stylish refurbished rooms at the Borrowdale Hotel have been inspired by its connection to the water and nature that surrounds it.

She said: “The schemes are aesthetically fresh with both luxurious and enduringly comfortable designs, perfect for the Borrowdale Hotel.

“Our aim is to deliver something that is modern, yet also ‘cosy’ and we’ve incorporated a number of bespoke features in the rooms, including 3D wall panelling.

“Every set of bedrooms we give a makeover are full of new ideas. We don’t like to use fabrics or furniture again if we can help it, so it helps keep the designs fresh and modern.”

Over the past decade FWP has worked on several upgrade projects for Lake District Hotels, which is owned by the Graves family, delivering contemporary bedrooms and impressive public spaces.

Hotels in the group it has worked on include the Skiddaw Hotel in Keswick and the Inn on the Lake at Glenridding.

Kate said: “We continually get inspiration from what is around us and every project we have delivered for Lake District Hotels is unique. Its hotels are all about quality and individuality and our designs look to enhance the offering and experience for guests.

“Our work ensures that bedroom space and natural light is used to the maximum affect and that guests can enjoy accommodation that is also the perfect place to relax and unwind.”

She added: “Sustainability is another area we have focused on, including using as many UK manufacturers as possible.”

FWP, which has offices in Preston, Manchester and London, has a wealth of experience in the hospitality and tourism sector.

It is the architect in the current project to deliver the Sands Venue Resort, which will be Blackpool’s first five-star hotel.

FWP is also currently working with the Walker & Williams hotel business on its North West aparthotel developments. Projects already delivered include No.10 Preston and Winkley Square Hotel in its home city of Preston.

Work has now started on the £1m second phase of the FWP-designed five-star The Hotel Chester. It will see the transformation of a former pub into a modern restaurant and additional accommodation for the award-winning city centre aparthotel, which opened its doors to visitors last April.

FWP led the restoration of the main, adjoining building which dates to around 1782 and its transformation into a £4.6m luxury boutique aparthotel.

The practice is also currently working on the redevelopment of Ormskirk’s former magistrates court building for the ambitious family-run group.