Words By ToBy MaxWell
HEYTHROP PARK HOTEL, a Grade II listed property in the Cotswolds, has reopened following a large-scale renovation. Design agency DesignLSM led the project, undertaking a strategic and creative scheme to evolve and expand Warner Leisure’s F&B offer as well as repositioning and redesigning the property with a key focus on three key principles of relaxation, exploration and entertainment.
Atrium, brasserie, reception lobby and theatre. Image Credit: Stevie campbell
The refurbishment has bridged the gap between the 18th-century charming manor house and the contemporary extension, creating an engaging aesthetic that runs through the whole estate including The Orangery, six lounges, three restaurants, two bars, a ballroom and a theatre. With the property originally built for the 1st Duke of Shrewsbury in 1706-1711, the transformation has been inspired by the previous owners and inhabitants of the estate, including taking influence from exciting adventures such as the duke’s grand tour.
Retaining the beautiful architecture while bringing the estate into the future for today’s modern traveller was a key design directive. Careful consideration was given to ensuring that the building’s stories were conveyed through intricate design features.
Atrium, brasserie, reception lobby and theatre. Image Credit: Stevie campbell
The Churchill, Bladon and Blenheim rooms – a trio of lounges set within the listed house – have been influenced by the duke’s modes of travel across Europe and the new cultures he would have experienced. The seating is inspired by the detailing of those found in traditional train carriages with warm and opulent velvets and contrasting piping, while an original oil painting depicting movement, bespoke prints and dressing items convey the obscure and exotic.
Located within the extension, The Market Kitchen – the largest of the three restaurants – takes its design cues from the traditional kitchen garden. Inspired by a working pantry, a calming colour palette is balanced with citrus-patterned upholstered chairs and floral wallpaper adding bursts of colour to the room. Meanwhile, the Brassey Bar conveys the history of another former owner of the estate, Thomas Brassey, who created many of the world’s railways within the 19th century. His love of engineering is illustrated through industrial forms, patterns and materials such as dramatic beamed structures, metal detailing, intricately patterned tiling and bespoke artwork and dressing.
Atrium, brasserie, reception lobby and theatre. Image Credit: Stevie campbell
Taking a contrasting approach to the classic aesthetic of the wider hotel, the Warwick Wing Theatre adds a striking contemporary touch of glamour and decadence to the hotel’s evening offering, with live music and cinematic performances on stage for guests’ entertainment. The atmospheric space is brought to life with arched lights that emit a warm glow throughout the room. The neighbouring Late Bar and Lounge plays with opulent fabrics, delicate patterns, dazzling lights and rich tones, creating a perfect backdrop for a more dynamic evening ambience.
Holly Hallam, managing director at DesignLSM, says: ‘Projects like this don’t come around very often, and to be a part of one on such a vast scale has been an incredibly exciting for both myself and the DesignLSM team. We’ve taken great care in respecting Heythrop Park’s historical roots, whilst bringing it forward into a new era of enjoyment and adventure for guests, for many years to come.’ www.designlsm.com
