George Hotel Phase 3

Name: One Darnley Road
Price range: $

Huddersfield, UK

Services

Sectors

Sports, Leisure and Hospitality

People

AHR Hotel The George Hotel Architecture D

AHR Hotel The George Hotel Architecture Huddersfield A

project overview

A key landmark within the town’s historic centre

We are working alongside a multidisciplinary team to bring the Grade II* Listed building back to life. A full refurbishment of the main range facing onto St Georges Square, together with extensive demolition and rebuild of the rear wings, whilst retaining the John Williams Street facade, will improve the building’s viability, sustainability and buildability, without compromising on its rich heritage.

As part of the transformation, the hotel will offer additional rooms, fitted out within an elegant yet radically designed interior design proposal to meet Radisson Red brand standards, whilst retaining and refreshing key heritage spaces, such as the former writing room where 21 clubs met in 1895 to establish Rugby League.

Our strategic repurposing of this cultural gem sensitively balances the needs of a modern hotel with protecting its historic fabric.

a carefully phased plan

Supporting a landmark through every phase

Since its purchase by Kirklees Council in 2020, the George Hotel has been guided by a carefully planned three-phase strategy. The first phase involved essential asbestos removal. The second phase was led by our building consultancy team, overseeing conservation repairs to the stone masonry, windows and roof, ensuring the structure was stabilised and its historic character safeguarded. The final phase focuses on the redevelopment of the building into a modern Radisson Red hotel.

refurbishment

Repurposing of an iconic part of Huddersfield town centre

Our approach focused on sensitive and sustainable refurbishment, placing the building’s character and history at the heart of the design. Much of the original internal floor structure will be preserved, honouring the building’s past but also allowing the historic ceilings and ornate plasterwork within the key heritage spaces to be retained, reducing the need for extensive new materials and consequential harm.

By simplifying the building’s services strategy, we are able to significantly reduce rooftop equipment, decluttering the silhouette and reveal more of the original roofline. This allows the historic architecture to breathe again, bringing this cultural gem back into public view.

A key part of the project involved the careful reconstruction of the listed John William Street facade. This will be approached with care to ensure longevity, resilience and continued enjoyment by future generations, while celebrating the craftsmanship of its creators.

Throughout, we took a light-touch approach to interventions, simplifying the internal layout to enhance and elevate the building’s historic fabric. This balance of preservation and modernisation has re-energised the space while remaining true to its architectural heritage.

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interior design

Local character meets contemporary elegance

Our interior design approach is a harmonious blend of the local surroundings with the needs of a stylish boutique hotel. The reception area and social space reflect the Radisson Red brand through carefully curated paint colours, feature wall coverings and striking red-themed artworks. Potted plants introduce greenery and life, softening the interior and enhancing wellbeing.

Lighting is designed to elevate the ambience, with suspended feature lights highlighting the arch ceiling, reception desk and seating areas, complemented by wall lights and floor lamps that create a welcoming atmosphere. Historic architectural details and plasterwork are thoughtfully accentuated, creating a strong sense of place while maintaining a contemporary edge.

A contemporary bedroom design blends warmth and functionality. Wood tones and black metal finishes create a refined, cohesive look, while integrated LED lighting enhances ambience and comfort. Thoughtful detailing, like the upholstered headboard with built-in controls, open wardrobe with smart storage and a mix of tactile finishes, deliver a stylish space designed for relaxation and practicality.

future development

Blending modernity with heritage

The George Hotel will not only provide much-needed hospitality accommodation, but also re-establish itself as a destination for residents, visitors and businesses alike. The careful balance of preservation and modernisation will enable the building will continue to serve Huddersfield for generations to come, celebrating its past while supporting the town’s future growth.

Team