The first phase of a multi-million pound refurbishment has begun at Blackwell Grange Hotel – one of the prized hotels in Darlington. The hotel’s five-year remodelling is now underway, with a substantial amount of the work to be carried out in the first quarter of 2018.
This initial phase will focus on the public areas of Blackwell Grange Hotel, including the main reception and lounge, three function suites and three bars; bringing new life to these historic areas in a more contemporary country house style.
A key element is to enhance the sense of arrival to the hotel, which will include opening up the main driveway views and improved parking facilities. The landscaping will be upgraded with larger patio areas taking greater advantage of the aspect and surroundings of Blackwell Grange.
Dawn Raine, who has been general manager at Blackwell since 2005, explained that “the investment will greatly enhance the Grade II listed building for the long term. At Blackwell Grange we believe that the hospitality business is first and foremost about people; that each stay should be treated as a unique experience for the guests. We can’t wait to give our beautiful hotel the restoration it deserves, and give Darlington a building of which it can be proud.”
Built in 1693 as a family home for industrialist, George Allan, the Grade II listed property stands within a wooded parkland which is about to be developed by Darlington Borough Council. The building was transformed into a hotel in 1970 and now features three function suites, 108 bedrooms, three bars, nine further function rooms, a restaurant and leisure facilities, including a swimming pool and gym.
People in the area have a real nostalgia when it comes to the hotel as it’s played a vital part in many lives, whether with weekly Sunday roasts, or big family weddings. We’re excited to help keep those memories alive, and give people an excuse to come back and make new ones”, Simon said.
Dawn, who has been a team leader at the hotel for over 20 years, said: “On behalf of myself and the team we are delighted to see these restoration works take place. Over the past 20 years we have seen several changes in ownership and promises of refurbishment and finally it is happening. We are excited to showcase the plans to our loyal and new customers who I am sure will be delighted with the proposed changes. It is very exciting times for myself and the team and we look forward to welcoming guests old and new to the hotel.”
The exciting new interiors will be the work of Simon Bartlett, managing director at Simon Comfortable and aesthetic, the design will combine new and old grandeur, such as plump upholstered seating with deep button fabrics, muted wall colours and vintage finishes; creating a classic, timeless design with plenty of atmosphere.
After completion of the first phase, investment will continue in the refurbishment of the hotel’s leisure facilities and bedrooms with further works progressing in the first quarter of each year over the next five years.
To find out more about The Blackwell Grange Hotel and its ongoing renovations, please contact Victoria at sales.blackwell@bruhennyhotels.co.uk or visit: https://www.blackwellgrangehotel.com/
Pictured: (L-R) Danny Piper, Food & Beverage Supervisor, Victoria Taylor, Sales Manager, Dawn Raine, General Manager, Rebecca Bogle, Meeting & Events Manager, Julia Demidova, Senior Receptionist.
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