Hotel refurbishment and redevelopment
Our approach to hotel retrofit and refurbishment is meticulous, with a focus on enhancing functionality, sustainability and guest experience.
In a long list of completed major projects, we've consistently demonstrated that well-executed refurbishments yield commercial viability and garner popularity with both local regulators and the public.
Our team employs innovative strategies to rejuvenate existing hotel spaces, optimising layouts to meet modern needs while integrating energy-efficient solutions to minimise environmental impact.
We are also highly experienced in handling heritage buildings and are adept at conducting sympathetic retrofitting and preserving historic fabrics. Notable examples include The Grand Hotel Birmingham and the Belle Époque architectural gems Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan and the Ritz Hotel in Madrid.
Our pioneering solutions have enabled ambitious extensions, such as a five-storey basement expansion at Claridge’s London undertaken while maintaining full operational functionality. Similarly, our expertise ensured that the emblematic Westin Palace Hotel in Madrid remained operational during renovation works.
From updating infrastructure to implementing cutting-edge technologies, we prioritise maintaining operational continuity while enhancing the hotel's overall aesthetic appeal and comfort. With meticulous planning and seamless execution, Arup ensures that each retrofit or refurbishment project not only meets but exceeds the expectations of both operators and guests alike.
Built in 1779, Bodmin Jail closed its doors as a prison in 1927. Nearly 100 years later, a dedicated team has injected new life into the Grade II-listed building. Twelve Architects, Arup and contractors C Field Construction and PIN CM have turned the derelict building into a four star hotel and immersive visitor attraction, retaining many original features.
Today, Bodmin Jail Hotel offers luxury accommodation in a truly unique venue providing 70 bedrooms, each created by combining three cells, along with a restaurant, bar and function space for up to 300 people. There is also a visitor attraction that uses theatrical effects and the latest technology to transport visitors back in time.
Restoring and repurposing the Grade II-listed building was no easy task. Largely in ruins, many areas had not had a roof for over 70 years. Attempts to destroy the jail had created cavernous, bomb-damaged areas, and hidden flues and voids within the walls from an earlier heating system required infilling. Arup’s Conservation Accredited Engineers (CARE) worked with the architect to overcome challenges – repairing and stabilising existing structures, adding extensions, engineering new roofs and creating access walkways.
Get in touch with our team
Explore
Discover more of our expertise:
Projects
Explore more property projects
Designing Sydney’s first integrated station development
Sydney Metro Martin Place integrated station development, Australia
An iconic landmark shaping the future for office buildings
The Henderson Building, Hong Kong
CapitaSpring uses biophilic design to keep people cool and healthy
CapitaSpring, Singapore
Challenging convention to create the next generation of tall buildings
50 Fenchurch Street, UK
Hotels & leisure
Arup leads the way in the development and design of hotel and leisure projects that set new operational, commercial and visitor standards. We have been involved with over 1,000 hotel projects worldwide.