Works have completed on the refurbishment of voco Grand Central, a 19th Century former Great British Railway Hotel, in the heart of Glasgow city centre. Part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts group, this is the first voco branded hotel in Scotland.
The multi-million-pound refurbishment, led by HLM Architects, includes the hotel’s meeting and events spaces, a new dedicated kitchen that serves the historic champagne central bar, 184 guest bedrooms and all public corridors.
A full understanding of the brand and guidance was key to transform this popular destination hotel. Requirements such as the installation of a new air/conditioning system and the installation of secondary glazing to all guest bedrooms added a layer of complexity. Due to its age, city centre location and Category A Listed Building classification, the project needed careful planning and phasing to ensure all parties involved were satisfied with the proposals.
To meet the voco brand standards and modernise the iconic look, elements such as new accent lighting, signage, soft furnishings, and bespoke artwork were added that complement the original ornate listed features. A corridor ceiling raft has been introduced for guest room services to ensure these features, including original cornicing, stone archways and corridors, could remain intact and visible, restoring the building’s history and heritage.
HLM developed and delivered on site the new signature interior look created by London Design Firm Goddard Littlefair, based on a colour palette of neutrals and deep blues which is offset by the characteristic voco yellow as well as accessories and feature walls in soft pink.
Jamie Wilson, Director at HLM Architects, said:
“Understanding the voco brand and developing these requirements into the refurbishment allowed us to create a design that enabled the building to express its individuality and unique appearance, whilst providing a modernised hotel for guests and visitors.”
voco Grand Central has recently reopened for essential travel and will reopen for leisure guests as government guidelines allow.