Bath’s Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is entering a new chapter in its 250-year history following a renovation by interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law.

Comprising two Grade I listed townhouses in the centre of the iconic crescent, recent modernisation work has seen the launch of a new indoor- outdoor dining concept in Montagu’s Mews, a chic new bar and the renovation of the largest suites.

With the initial design work complete by the end of March, Woodhouse & Law were appointed to transform the guestrooms, drawing room and lobby of the landmark building, given its expertise in modernising listed and period property in the city.

The studio’s signature style – luxurious, playful, yet understated – is instantly recognisable in the schemes, which feel vibrant and contemporary. A wealth of experience across the high-end residential sector can also be seen in the finished bedrooms, which are at once inviting and warm, imbued with fresh energy while retaining the integrity and elegance of the original architectural features.

Seeking to connect the lobby with the reception spaces and newly refreshed bar and restaurant, Woodhouse & Law looked to the hotel’s verdant and unexpected gardens for inspiration. Creating a sense of biophilia was also a homage to the much-loved magnolia previously occupying the façade, removed due the damage its roots were causing to the Grade-I building.

The team also fell in love with the Italian Promenade fresco design by London-based duo Iksel, reminiscent of the rural scenes enjoyed by Georgian homeowners. The sylvan design is a reference to the influence that Italian architecture, with its emphasis on symmetry and proportions, had on the architects of the time.

The classical mural is offset by a vibrant orange ottoman with brass detailing and a contemporary Mid-Century style desk clad in brass. Architectural lighting meanwhile highlights the handsome pediment over the entrance to the drawing room and armoires to either side of the fireplace. The fresh, vibrant palette lifts the space, creating an impactful, welcoming and memorable entrance to the hotel.

Next up, the drawing room features ornate plasterwork and triple sash windows; details that Woodhouse & Law wanted to bring to the fore. Walls are painted in Zoffany Quarter Mushroom, complemented with Zoffany Mushroom for subtle definition. Original antique portraits are contrasted with an invigorating contemporary piece in bold colours by British artist Debbie Goldsmith, which brings fresh energy to the room. New upholstery in blues, warm neutrals and oranges, layered with colour and pattern from the likes of Zinc, Osborne & Little and Casamance, add further interest and depth to the scheme.

Occasional tables also create cosy, intimate spaces to sit, while fringed ottomans provide flexible and versatile additional seating when required. New window treatments using one of the team’s favourite Zoffany fabrics are in keeping with the classical style; designed to dress the window neatly, without obscuring the views out across the Royal Crescent.

The room is accessorised so that the grandeur of the space is offset by softer touches. A feeling only enhanced by the new lighting scheme, which sees a contemporary pendant by Porta Romana, wall lights by Visual Comfort and table lamps to add gentle warmth to the ambience during the evening. Architectural lighting subtly highlights key details, with the likes of an LED showcasing the pediment over the door and uplights accentuating the marble fireplace, allowing it to remain a focal point with or without being lit.

An integral space for the reception team at check-in, guests immediately feel relaxed and at home for their stay. The new scheme complements the contemporary, elegant feel throughout the hotel, while celebrating the intrinsic link between its history and location.

Each guestroom meanwhile is unique, from grand suites with triple sash windows overlooking the Royal Crescent at the front of the hotel to cosy attic rooms with verdant garden views. As such, Woodhouse & Law relished the opportunity to refresh and modernise the spaces, ensuring that rooms offer a luxurious, comfortable place for guests to escape to.

Those looking out to the gardens feature palettes in bright greens and blues inspired by the views beyond. In smaller spaces with less natural light, there’s bolder use of colour for depth and interest. From bright sunshine yellows to a striking Iris Apfel fabric on an oversized headboard, the design team adopted a playful approach to each scheme, with contemporary furniture and lighting sitting alongside restored antique armoires. As befits the modern luxury experience, bespoke new cabinetry by a local maker houses refreshments, while USB ports enable quick and easy tech charging.

CREDITS
Photography: © Pete Helme