Virgin Hotels has officially opened its new Glasgow location, the second European location for the company. Found upon the banks of the iconic River Clyde and nearby Central Station, the construction of Virgin Hotels Glasgow has included various dining facilities, luxury accommodation, and influences from the surrounding city area.
The new property is comprised of 240 decorated rooms, all set to the brand's signature chamber design. With natural light and natural elements throughout, the rooms offer guests optimum privacy, as well as high-quality in-room amenities.
Creative director and vice president of design at Virgin Hotels, Teddy Mayer, said that the hotel's attention to detail has continued throughout the rest of the hotel.
"The hotel's nautical elements are infused with modern twists, elegantly capturing Glasgow's vibrant spirit from a contemporary perspective. Upon entering the hotel, guests are met with stunning design features that open up the space and ignite their desire to explore, including vaulted ceilings, antiquated glass and a grand staircase," said Mayer.
Mayer worked closely with Silk Property Group throughout the design development process to acknowledge Glasgow's shipping industry. Public spaces have been added as part of the complex with picturesque views of the city.
Artwork throughout the hotel has also been designed in collaboration with Viso Art, and has showcased local Scottish illustrators, painters, and photographers. All pieces of artwork have been inspired by the city's heritage.
The hotel's flagship restaurant, Commons Club, has opened with a menu full of locally inspired dishes and beverages crafted by executive chef, Jean-Paul Giraud. On the second floor, Highyard, is an open-air restaurant to offer guests a lush forest ambience inside, with a menu open to guests day and night.
Virgin Hotels is part of the greater company founded by prolific businessman, Sir Richard Branson. Branson said that the city of Glasgow has special meaning to him.
"Glasgow holds a special place in my heart, as one of the first record shops we opened was on Union Street, and my wife was born and brought up here. With Virgin Hotels Glasgow, we aimed to capture Glasgow's unique spirit, offering visitors and locals an unparalleled experience. The hotel's design truly reflects this as well as the city's rich history and we look forward to welcoming everyone to the hotel to enjoy all that we have to offer. Well done to the team for creating magic, yet again," said Branson.
State-of-the-art meeting and conference rooms are also included within the hotel's floor plan, offering luxurious furnishings, lighting, and technology.
Virgin Hotels Collection CEO, James Bermingham, said that the Glasgow location is a momentous milestone for the company.
"At Virgin Hotels, we are driven by our passion for delivering innovative design and heartfelt service, and our latest opening is no exception. Every detail has been curated to reflect the dynamic and diverse essence of Glasgow, and we hope the hotel will not only be a home away from home, but a door to the incredible experiences within this exciting city," added Bermingham.
Virgin Hotels Collection also has several other projects in its pipeline across the United States, including Miami and Denver, which are due to open in 2025.
