A brand new look for Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel
27 February 2019
VIEW GALLERY OF OUR NEW LOOK BEDROOMS & LOUNGE
Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel is undergoing a major refurbishment showcasing the perfect mix of elegant Regency splendor and quirky Brighton charm. Formerly known as ‘The Norfolk’, the hotel has been making waves on Brighton’s seafront since the nineteenth century welcoming guests from far and wide to the iconic Victorian property.
The project is being undertaken by local Hove based interior designer, Helen Hooper. We spoke to Helen about her inspiration for the design, colour, and themes for the bespoke refurbishment.
Originally from London, Helen has been based in Hove for the past 14 years. She loves the area, the laid back way of life, and the stunning architecture. Being local, and knowing the hotel, having worked on re-designing the ballroom some years ago, she is delighted to be working on the full refurbishment programme.
Helen explained that there was a need for a dramatic change at the hotel, to bring the décor up-to-date whilst recognising the hotel’s history within the local Brighton and Hove area. As a listed building, no structural changes have taken place, but Helen added that this has helped add to the allure of re-designing each area. She thinks of it as Russian dolls, each room leading on to the next, and revealing something exquisite within.
The main lounge and reception have had a blocked up window reinstated, adding much needed natural daylight to the area. The lounge has been transformed into a gallery showcasing finest creations from local artists. The new inky blue warm colour scheme is welcoming, and complemented with white; the columns and mouldings painted to reflect the new colour scheme. A stunning bespoke designed carpet, inspired by the ripple effect of the tide drawing out sets the new area apart. New mood lighting adds the final touch to ensure this area is welcoming whilst reflecting the local area and its history.
The bar and restaurant are to have jewel colours of sapphire, emerald, and amber to add warmth to these areas; with the restaurant ceiling being taken back to its original height. This area will be enhanced by pendant and mood lighting which will create a wonderful place to sit with a drink, relax, and enjoy afternoon tea or an evening meal.
The bar will be the new home for the pieces of the West Pier, which were salvaged and purchased for the hotel when the West Pier was destroyed by fire. They will be incorporated into the bar front and lit from behind to create an atmospheric ethereal glow.
The bedrooms are also being refurbished. From new throws, curtains and carpets, to décor reflecting the seaside. Standard bedrooms will include a new desk, open plan wardrobe, and large beds providing a fresh and modern look. Swing bedside lights will complement the lighting in these rooms.
The 16 seafront rooms are benefitting from a plush grey silk effect décor, with bespoke grey lacquer furniture, and beautiful glass and brass chandeliers; with antique mirror glass on the desk and bedside shelves. Look out for the bedspreads with a pattern inspired by the waves. In order to be sustainable, original features have been given a second life and headboards have been adorned with royal blue plush velvet. There is new artwork throughout the rooms; look closely to see what has been inspired by, and tells the history of, the local area.
The bathrooms haven’t been forgotten either, with new high quality shower systems; tile and marble effect on the walls and Amtico encaustic tile effect floors, complemented by traditional style wash stand.
The hotel’s stunning refurbishment is the perfect blend of old with new, and if you look closely you can see an insight into the wonderful history of Brighton and Hove throughout.
