Virgin Hotels has announced the opening date of its Edinburgh outpost, marking the group’s first property outside of the US. Situated in the India Buildings in the city’s Old Town the hotel comprises 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites as well as multiple F&B outlets, all with their own distinct design.
Billed to open in June, the latest venture is set to be followed by Virgin Hotels Glasgow later in summer. The site is also home to a 19th century church, now known as Greyfriars Hall, which has been restored and repurposed as an event venue. And to top it all off, a rooftop sanctuary affords views of Edinburgh Castle.
Warm textiles and locally sourced furnishings create a bright, airy feel, the Chambers feature Virgin Hotels’ signature layout with two areas; the Dressing Room includes a full vanity, double closet space for two, makeup desk and mirror, an extra-large shower with a built-in bench and toiletries by Arran of Scotland completes the room. A sliding door or drapery separates it from The Lounge, which houses Virgin Hotels’ ergonomically designed bed with tufted headboard, a fully stocked red Smeg mini-fridge includes a curated selection of local products. A television, ample outlets for smartphones, laptops or other devices ensures connectivity.
Spanning ten floors, guests have a range of options when selecting a Chamber or Suite, with 15 categories to choose from. Signature suite Richard’s Flat strikes the balance for Sir Richard’s home away from home with its restored architectural details and contemporary furnishings, while the Eve Branson suite – a nod to the Virgin founder’s late mother, found under the bell tower of the revived mediaeval church – sees dramatic architecture tempered with a muted palette in rich textures.
For those looking to stay somewhere a little different, the Moroccan-inspired Kasbah Tamadot Suite honours the Virgin Limited Edition property in the Atlas Mountains, with a secret second floor lounge adorned with traditional fabrics and festive lanterns.
The social spaces include Commons Club – Virgin Hotels’ flagship restaurant and bar – and Eve, an all-day dining and late-night entertainment space.
A collaboration between Virgin Hotels and Scottish design and architecture studios Ica, Four-by-Two and Joelle Reid Interiors, the hotel’s design preserves the original building’s notable elements while adding a sense of style and sophistication. The property promises a mix of old and new to capture the character of Edinburgh’s cultural heritage, combined with the personalised service the Virgin Hotels group is known for.
James Bermingham, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Hotels commented:
“Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we’re thrilled it will be the home of the first Virgin Hotels in the UK and across Europe. Through dynamic contextual design and neighbourhood-centric influences the new hotel will be a cultural city hub, with a design that sustains the building’s heritage while adding a vibrant, new style to the area.”