A boutique Cambridgeshire hotel is set for a stunning £2.5m extension after planning permission was granted.
Ormerod Sutton Architects (OSA) has been given the go-ahead for the transformational project at the Felix Hotel in Cambridge.
Plans submitted to South Cambridgeshire District Council include 16 new bedrooms and a glass reception area which was likened to the world-famous Barcelona Pavilion by planners.
The Leeds-based architecture practice took a methodical and rational approach to the planning, aiming to improve the guest experience at Felix Hotel.
A new reception area will greatly improve accessibility and has been designed to incorporate bespoke commercial furniture, designed by OSA.
It was essential that the update’s contemporary design complemented the Victorian style of the original 1852 building, which had been the house of a botanist.
This horticultural legacy has been respected by Felix Hotel since the acquisition of the building in 2001, including maintaining the site’s green-belt status.
The project was designed by OSA Director Armine Sutton.
Armine, explained: “We are extremely pleased that this innovative project has been given the green light. We are confident that this exciting project will more than live up to expectation.”
She added: “The glass for the reception adds a contrasting contemporary element whilst endeavouring to respect the original structure. The idea was for the area to be eye-catching and draw the attention of visitors. It is a bold design and for planners to liken its minimalism to one the world’s most iconic and inspirational buildings is very flattering.”
Jeremy Cassel, Managing Director at Cassel Hotels Ltd, said: “OSA did a tremendous job with their plans for Felix Hotel and I am delighted that their vision has been approved. The update is going to be a very exciting process which will transform the guest experience for our customers.”
Building works on Felix Hotel are expected to begin in early-2019.
OSA is a multi-disciplinary practice providing bespoke solutions for a range of private and business clients across the UK.
Clients include Kwik Fit and Majestic Wine. The firm prides itself on its holistic approach when designing a new space and frequently integrates bespoke commercial furniture design into its client-oriented services.
