We designed a concept for the Westgate Plaza Hotel, a significant new-build leisure project in the centre of Cardiff. The brief was to meet the ‘Hampton by Hilton’ brand requirements, where function meets comfort, whilst also delivering development value. Our client was local developer Rightacres in combination the Welsh Rugby Union as landowner.
The feasibility concept for the Westgate Plaza Hotel provided 207 bedrooms, constructed over 11 storeys. We arranged the communal spaces to overlook the stadium access ramps, providing an improved entrance to The Principality Stadium.
The Building Envelope
We conceived the building to be like a book positioned on a bookshelf. The long sides, or book covers, addressed an improved entrance for the stadium, and had a simplicity and rhythm that was legible from longer views. Whereas the short side facing Westgate Street, or book spine, was more expressive and decorative thus responding to the grand Victorian architecture of this area.
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
We designed the hotel rooms to be fully constructed off site and fitted-out in pairs, made using shipping container systems. As a result, the contractor could crane the rooms onto the concrete frame forming the base, and then bolt them together over nine storeys. Therefore, there was no need for a main structural frame for the upper floors.
Key facilities included a restaurant, bar & bistro, lounge, as well as meeting rooms and event spaces.
Hospitality and Leisure
In addition to The Westgate Plaza Hotel concept, we also completed the The Parkgate Hotel on Westgate Street, in 2021. Our scheme incorporated two historic civic buildings dating from the early 20th century – the former Post Office and the County Court. Thus, highlighting our team’s talent and expertise in leisure and hotel design, as well as our outstanding knowledge of renovation and retrofit.