The Lygon Arms Hotel Gloucestershire

Fileturn carried out a full programme of works to refurbish and expand the Grade I listed 16th Century Lygon Arms Hotel.

The project drew on all of Fileturn’s skills and experience in conservation work to preserve the hotel’s original features while providing the best in modern facilities. We worked closely with English Heritage to ensure that every detail was correct.

Preserving for the future

A particular challenge was the cleaning of the 16th Century stonework. English Heritage insisted that neither water nor any cleaning complex could be used; after extensive research and testing Fileturn found the solution of spreading a latex compound on the walls which could then be peeled off, removing the dirt without damaging the stone.

The master craftsmen in Fileturn’s specialist joinery division repolished the original oak panelling in the hotel restaurant and painstakingly created exact replicas for parts which needed replacing. They also handmade oak doors, beams and cornices in the extended reception to match the originals.

In addition, Fileturn sourced matching stone flags for the floor from local masons and had ironmongery forged to the original design by a local ironmonger. We also worked with a specialist crittall window supplier to create a design that matched the original heritage windows while also satisfying Building Control officers that it meets modern performance standards.

A major structural element of the project was the preservation of an ornate ceiling in the Cromwell room dating back hundreds of years. The ceiling had dropped over time and was structurally unsound. Fileturn secured its future by holding the ceiling in place with stainless steel ties lowered from the bedrooms above the room. This was a delicate operation which took thirteen days to carry out following months of planning.

All the latest comforts

At the same time as restoring and replicating the original details of the building, Fileturn also provided all the modern comforts expected of a premium hotel. We installed high-speed internet access, air-conditioning, Bang & Olufsen audio visuals and custom-made furniture in every bedroom and conference room.

New bathrooms were installed throughout the hotel featuring underfloor heating and top of the range sanitaryware and fittings. Through our value engineering exercise we were able to help the client secure the highest quality materials at the best possible price. Our expert tilers overcame the challenge of the historic building’s uneven floors and walls to lay stylish solid marble tiles in each bathroom.

The Lygon Arms remained open for business throughout the refurbishment. The Fileturn team worked in close partnership with the management team to minimise disruption to guests and staff.