Edwardian Hotels London is making waves in the heart of London. The company has reached a major milestone in its ambitious new development in Leicester Square, celebrating the completion of the deepest hotel basement in the city.
This isn’t just any basement, mind you. Excavations have reached a depth of over 30 meters, making it a feat of engineering and a testament to the company’s vision for a truly unique hotel experience.
Deep Roots, High Ambitions
The project, which will open its doors in 2019, represents a £300 million investment, showcasing Edwardian Hotels London’s dedication to the future of hospitality in the capital. This isn’t just about building a hotel; it’s about establishing a destination.
Iype Abraham, the company’s commercial development director, emphasizes their commitment to Leicester Square, a vibrant hub of entertainment and culture. The new hotel will be a complementary addition, attracting both locals and tourists alike, and cementing Edwardian Hotels London’s legacy within the West End.
An “Iceberg” Hotel in the Heart of London
With London’s soaring property prices, Edwardian Hotels has found an innovative solution: an “iceberg” hotel. A whopping 52% of the property will be located below the surface, a bold strategy to maximize value.
Imagine this: six stories below ground, a subterranean world teeming with amenities. This hotel dives deeper than most tube stations! The underground levels will house a dazzling array of facilities, including bars, restaurants, two Odeon cinemas, a banquet hall, and leisure facilities.
Above ground, 350 elegant rooms and suites await, offering a luxurious escape from the bustling city.
Creating a Destination, Not Just a Hotel
Rob Steul, Edwardian Hotels’ creative director, emphasizes the importance of creating an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s design, a modern four-sided island site, guarantees accessibility for the public to all its offerings, including the bars, cinemas, and the hotel itself.
The entertainment and leisure facilities are crucial in building a unique atmosphere. The company’s goal? To offer a destination where visitors can find everything they need, making it a truly immersive experience.
A Time Capsule for the Future
In recognition of this milestone, Edwardian Hotels London has placed a time capsule in the basement, preserving blueprints, newspapers, and CGIs of the development. This capsule serves as a poignant reminder of the project’s journey and a glimpse into the future of hospitality.
A Complex and Inspiring Project
Neil Hooton, Associate Director at Arup, highlights the challenges and rewards of this ambitious undertaking. Building in such a bustling and iconic area requires meticulous planning and innovation. The structure of the building makes clever use of space, allowing for a variety of facilities to flourish at the heart of London.
Reaching the bottom of the basement excavation is a significant milestone, and the team is now focused on laying the building’s foundations and continuing the build back to ground level and beyond.
A Vision of Innovation and Scale
Brian McGee, managing director at McGee, emphasizes the exceptional scale and ambition of this project. Operating both above and below ground with such a diverse range of facilities is truly remarkable. This project stands out as a testament to the power of innovation and the dedication to exceeding expectations.
