One Warwick Park opens in Kent
One Warwick Park has opened in Tunbridge Wells’ historic Pantiles district, Kent.
The new 39-guestroom property – designed by HMY architects in collaboration with KTB and Envy London – inhabits a reimagined brew house and schoolhouse, taking the previously unconnected structures and creating a harmonious and unified building filled with light. A feature gallery space links the two buildings, showcasing local, national and international artists.
“Our biggest challenge, is now our greatest achievement,” says Melanie Ellis, director of Envy London. “Creating the gallery space was a true feat of engineering, with builders BJBabb taking the building down to basement level, and then sub basement level – no easy accomplishment in a busy town centre – to create a unique link connecting buildings old and new. We embraced the irregularities of the period architecture to create a very special property, full of charm.”
Guestrooms and suites focus on comfort, with no detail of the guest experience overlooked. Starting with a list of irritating hotel features such as poor lighting, badly designed bathrooms, confusing directions and sockets in the wrong place, the designers analysed a guest’s practical requirements to ensure a comfortable, functional and relaxing environment.
Each room is styled to optimise space, with a neutral palette of five different colour schemes and the use of bespoke furnishings sourced from local ateliers adding to the distinctive and contemporary style.
The Duplex Suite, overlooking the quaint Kent cobbles, pairs period features such as a listed staircase, with a fresh, elegant design, while the three Deluxe Balcony rooms offer a private landscaped terrace with views over Tunbridge Wells. All guestrooms feature a King or Super King bed with locally-sourced, hand-finished furnishings, large flat screen TVs, and Temple Spa toiletries.
A double height atrium is at the heart of the hotel; a light, flexible space for entertainment and celebration. There are four additional locations to dine and drink throughout the day: a resident’s Lounge; 75-cover Restaurant L’Amore; and the quieter Snug for relaxation.
A private dining area and a range of meeting and licensed events spaces offer flexibility for celebrations or company gatherings of up to 180 people. The 140m2 Old School House function room provides a contemporary white backdrop whilst retaining the School House’s 19th century timber vaults and 15ft arched windows, creating a unified space filled with light, energy and vitality.
Louise Clark, Managing Director of Markerstudy Leisure, owner-operators of One Warwick Park, says: “We’re incredibly excited to be finally opening our doors. Every element of the hotel has been carefully crafted and curated to ensure our guests enjoy a superlative experience. We want it to feel like their home from home, where comfort, ease and beauty are priorities. Our staff have been handpicked, expertly trained and knowledgeable, to make certain our guests receive a well presented and personalised welcome.”
