Dexter Moren Associates has secured planning permission to refurbish and extend a Grade II Listed Victorian building in Norwich, creating a 110 key boutique hotel.
Built as a hotel in 1897, the Royal Hotel was subsequently converted to offices in the 1980s, leaving only its lower floors occupied. Dexter Moren Associates plan to convert vacant upper floors of offices into elegant guest rooms, while adding a contemporary extension into the existing lightwell.
A rooftop terrace, with Sky bar and restaurant, for hotel guests, outside visitors and local residents, will nestle within the Royal’s existing roofscape, giving striking views of Norwich Cathedral. Inside, original detailing such as the ornate Drawing Room ceiling will be kept, with the great first floor ballroom becoming an open plan co-working space.
“The Royal will be an Ibis Styles hotel, a mid market (3*) boutique style brand whose ethos of providing an original experience through eclectic design, is perfectly suited to the conversion and refurbishment of such a historic building,” explains Mark Wood, Partner at DMA.
“The hotel will incorporate an interior design scheme based on a unique ‘local neighbourhood’ theme, retaining and enhancing the rich character and heritage story of this landmark building, whilst bringing it up to the standards expected of a modern 21st century hotel.”
