Derelict historic building in Chester transformed into a luxury aparthotel

15 April 2021

A building that has been derelict for 15 years reopened this week after being transformed into a luxury aparthotel.

The building on Newgate Street in Chester has been turned into a new boutique facility complete with 12 themed apartments.

The Walker & Williams hotel opened on Monday in line with the Government's lockdown roadmap easing, and is now looking to benefit from the predicted boom in staycations.

Architect Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) has led the restoration of the building, which dates to around 1782, and its transformation into a £4.6m aparthotel, which has taken 18 months to complete.

Brent Clayton, partner at FWP, said: “We have worked closely with Walker & Williams to produce something in Chester that is very, very special.

“It’s great to see the completed transformation of an historic old building and the hotel open for business.

“Walker & Williams prides itself on quality and we look to deliver stylish modern apartments for its guests, utilising every part of the property through good design.

“We’ve built up a good relationship with the client and we understand their vision and ethos. It is about creating a real sense of luxury."

Each apartment has a theme, including the Money Penny - a James Bond-themed modern penthouse apartment made up of two large living spaces connected by a floating bridge.

The tree house family apartment is built from recycled wood and is said to be “at one with nature”. Other apartments have names including Secret Garden, Flamingo and Zoo.

Walker & Williams operations director Max Williams said: “We have a proven track record of delivery success and we see a growing appetite for the boutique style luxury accommodation we offer as the country moves out of lockdown and people look to enjoy what places like Chester can offer.

“The five-star Hotel Chester is our finest aparthotel to date, and we are looking forward to welcoming both leisure and corporate guests.

“Once again FWP has played a major role in the design and delivery of this amazing project.”

Preston-based FWP is also currently working on the redevelopment of Ormskirk's former magistrates building, also on behalf of Walker & Williams.

Walker & Williams has been given the green light to transform the building into a five-star aparthotel with 23 apartments, a restaurant, and a cocktail bar.