Midland Hotel

With support and advice from English Heritage, the architects (Union North) and the construction team, led by Urban Splash Build, were able to overcome a wide range of highly complex conservation challenges. The spirit and integrity of the original architecture has been maintained; new services and major alterations have been successfully integrated within the framework of the building. Bill Maynard, Managing Director, Urban Splash Liverpool

The grade II* listed Midland Hotel in the seaside resort of Morecambe is one of the most important 20th-century buildings on the English west coast. Early modernist architect Oliver Hill was commissioned to build the structure in 1932; the resulting striking design has lavish interiors, ornamented by sculptors and artists such as Eric Gill and Eric Ravilious. The building’s elegant curved form follows the line of the promenade facing the sea, ensuring sea views from every room.

From the 1950s onwards the hotel fell into decline, as holidaymakers deserted British seaside resorts for guaranteed sunshine overseas, and the hotel was finally boarded up in 2000. In January 2003 it was taken on by Urban Splash, who spent nearly two years undertaking research, securing resources – largely from the Northwest Regional Development Agency – and preparing a project to reopen the hotel.

English Heritage was involved from the earliest stages, working with Lancaster City Council to help Urban Splash to make major changes to the layout. Access and safety arrangements had to be addressed, without damaging the historic significance of the hotel. English Heritage was able to enrich the architects’ good understanding of the building’s history and advise on the most effective ways of integrating new features with the old. The rooftop bar has been replaced by six guest suites, while the kitchens have been relocated to the basement. Lancaster City Council’s drive and enthusiasm helped Urban Splash bring back to Morecambe the 1930s glamour exemplified by this exceptional building.