Published: Mar 21, 2018
Focus:
Property
Maven has opened the doors on its latest hotel development following a year-long comprehensive £15 million redevelopment. The Grade II listed Shire Hall, which was originally built in the 1890s as the headquarters for Durham County Council, underwent a sympathetic renovation and has been transformed into the four-star, 83-bedroom Hotel Indigo Durham.
The building had stood vacant since 2012 until Maven completed the purchase of the iconic building in 2016.
The property boasts a number of impressive period features which have all been lovingly restored to their former glory, including the grand tiled marble staircases, wood panelling and stained glass windows. The circular debating chamber and lobby room has also be retained, providing an iconic setting for the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill restaurant and cocktail bar.
Maven has also utilised it Scottish roots to collaborate with Tinderbox, an operator of coffee shops across Glasgow as well as outlets in Manchester and London, which has opened its own espresso bar in the lobby of the hotel. It will provide an accessible place for members of the local community to get together and enjoy a wide range of quality coffees and light snacks.
The hotel is located only a five minutes from the railway station and is in easy walking distance of the University. Guests will also benefit from stunning views of Durham Castle and Cathedral in the heart of the historic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Durham is Maven’s third venture with the boutique brand Hotel Indigo, owned by InterContinental Hotels Group, following similar projects in Glasgow and Cardiff. The property will sit within Maven’s growing hotel portfolio, which also includes brands such as ibis Styles and Travelodge.
“We are thrilled to have our third hotel Indigo opened in such a magnificent building and in the North East where our business has seen significant growth recently, including establishing new offices in Newcastle and in Durham itself.”
Ramsay Duff, Investment Director at Maven
