The Royal Yacht Hotel
- Client Lodestar Group Ltd.
- Location 2007
- Contractor Deerglen in collaboration with Hicamp
- Team Mike Waddington, Dave Kemp, Paul Oliver
Thought to be the oldest established hotel in St. Helier, The Royal Yacht was probably founded in the 1820's and our concept was to refurbish and restore the original building but contrast it with an architecturally very modern new extension, separated by a dramatic 5-storey glass atrium. The new Royal Yacht creates a vibrant new backdrop to Weighbridge Square. The project comprises: 76 new hotel bedrooms & 34no. restored existing rooms. A new spa, beauty and wellbeing centre as well as a swimming pool located in the basement as well as treatment rooms and a gymnasium. At ground floor level there are new bars and a restaurant and alfresco. On the first floor there are a series of flexible conference suites capable of catering for major functions. The architectural design is simple, elegant and legible. Using modern materials like steel and glass, combined with hardwood balcony decks. The detailing of the steel colonnade, balconies and handrails is nautically inspired and emphasises the historic links between the waterfront, harbour and town. The setback, pavilion-like penthouse rooms are sharp-edged in form and offer a contrast to more fluid, wave-form sculptural balconies. Flashes of colour are suggested by the projecting fabric awnings above the alfresco areas and hints of the interior of the atrium. The excellent energy-efficiency of the completed project is reinforced by the Royal Yacht's own commitment to low-carbon best practice in running the hotel operationally. The project represents a very positive note in Jersey's tourism market.