Design Approach
Our design concept for phase one of this project was to create an interior scheme that delivers the brand experience, with particular emphasis on creating the right atmosphere throughout.
The Holiday Inn Express, Cardiff Bay has undertaken a significant refurbishment and reconfiguration of its ground floor area to reflect the brands personality. Phase 1 of the work is complete, which has improved the arrival area – bespoke reception desks and new modern lounge seating has been added for a better use of the space and also creates a welcoming feel for guests. From the reception area, guests can enjoy views over the newly designed terrace area, overlooking Cardiff wharf.
A new lounge area has been designed using feature sofas, rugs and geometric acoustic panels, creating a space with a sense of ‘home’ and modern comfort. The great hall – a space for eating and drinking – uses a variety of seating types and a mixture of high and low tables of different shapes and materials, allowing a non-generic canteen feel for guests. The use of pendant lights over some of the tables create pockets of light, adding to the sense of comfort.
The café and bar area has been refurbished with feature flooring and new work surfaces, and the bar located next to the great hall space allows guests to use the differing seating and table types.
The breakfast area has been given a bespoke café style with the use of new signage, and accents of grey geometric shapes have been added to the flooring, creating a sense of consistency and reflecting the brand’s personality throughout the ground floor.
Phase 2 – The Staybridge Suites is currently on site. This is the first of its kind in Wales, and brings stylish residential apartments to create an easy living experience for both business and tourism visitors.
In addition to the 75no extended stay rooms with fully functioning kitchens, the hotel is committed to creating a sense of community, comfort and convenience and in this spirit, will include a coffee bar and lounge, laundry facilities and meeting rooms for residents.
Guests will also be able to use the existing hotel facilities. HLM’s interior design team have created an interior scheme which delivers a brand experience, creating the right atmosphere through materiality, FF&E, lighting and artwork.
