Historic Bristol mansion, Clevedon Hall in North Somerset, has opened today following an exciting three-year refurbishment.The 150-year-old mansion has had over £3 million spent on transforming and restoring the venue to its former glory, lining it up to become one of the top luxury hospitality venues in the UK. Over 200 guests are expected to attend the launch event where Dr.Liam Fox MP will be cutting the ribbon.
Foster and Wood, a local firm of Bristol Architects, who have previously designed other landmarks in the surrounding area including the Grammar School Hall, originally designed Clevedon Hall. Formally named Frankfurt Hall, the house was built for Conrad Finzel, who owned the UK’s largest sugar-refining business in the Counterslip Factory, Bristol.
The current owners, Peter and Sally McCarthy bought the hall 1991 from St Brandon’s girl school and created their business headquarters there. When an opportunity was created in 2010 to revitalise the build and estate with the idea of holding wonderful luxury events the McCarthys were keen to start immediately.
As well as maintaining the upper two floors and creating 25 bedrooms and suites, the owners were also set on restoring many of the original features including the windows and wood, the Victorian fireplaces, the extensive carved oak panelling and grand staircase.
John McCarthy, General Manager of Clevedon Hall, said: “We have restored as much of Clevedon Hall’s history as possible and have worked closely with English Heritage and the local conservation officer to ensure the designs are just right”.
Childs & Sulzmann Architects, John Perkins Construction and Jane Clayton & Company Ltd are the teams responsible for bringing the Clevedon Hall back to life, injecting modern comforts, whilst taking care to preserve the wealth of interesting period features already in place.
Restoration and redecoration were carried out in the Grand Library and adjoining orangery, as well as the Dame Rosa Burden room. Renovations began by removing all of the office furniture and carpets from the bottom floor. The ground floor then had the paint and wallpaper restored or replaced.
When looking at the fixtures and fittings, the current owners were keen to keep the charm of the building in place. The brand new bedrooms and suites are in keeping with the traditional values of the property and include many antique pieces in addition to high quality reproductions.
John added: “We told our teams that we wanted the bedrooms and suites to feel like a home away from home, with a traditional finish, whereby the bedrooms and suites all embody the same English country house theme throughout. The house has kept its historic character, however we have just added in a contemporary twist, which runs throughout the whole property.”
The exclusive venue offers it all, from Christenings to conferences based on creating a completely unique event for each client. Available to hire out on an exclusive basis, their concierge can help organise décor, music, food, drinks and much more.
