CCA1244/1389 / Hotel Redevelopment – Caistor Hall, Norwich

Key Design Solutions

As part of our involvement in the hotel redevelopment, we were engaged to deliver a range of key design solutions aimed at enhancing the site’s offerings and guest experience. This included concept designs for the expansion of accommodation, adding 30 additional hotel bedrooms with en-suite facilities to increase guest capacity and comfort.

We also provided initial designs for a state-of-the-art spa and wellbeing centre, featuring a gym, pools, and ancillary studios. Additionally, we developed proposals for luxury glamping pods and associated external works, including a car park to accommodate event guests and visitors to the nearby Roman town attraction.

In addition, our team created development plans for a new bistro, offering high-quality, locally sourced food, alongside a deli shop showcasing ‘Proudly Norfolk’ produce. We also prepared proposals for internal alterations to incorporate a Michelin-starred restaurant, a garden kitchen, and a wine cellar, complete with retail and tasting facilities.

Further designs included coordinating a demountable glasshouse or orangery structure with a specialist supplier. This structure is intended to function as a flexible event space, enhancing the site’s adaptability.

Lastly, we created early-stage designs for an academy and cooking school, incorporating a lecture theatre and training rooms to establish a hub for culinary and hospitality education.

Our initial focus was on conducting feasibility studies and master-planning for the entire project, with a particular emphasis on the Phase 1 works. This stage included the development of sketch plans, basic CAD drawings, and white card 3D models for the proposed accommodation expansion, which introduced new hotel rooms to enhance the site’s capacity and appeal.

Detailed proposals were created to integrate modern wellness facilities, including a spa and pools, while preserving and complementing the estate’s historic character. In addition, layout concepts were developed for the dining facilities, encompassing the Michelin-starred restaurant, bistro, and the entrance to Palm Court.

As part of the planning process, we acted as the client’s agent in Pre-Application submissions to the Local Planning Authority (LPA). This included representing the client at Pre-Application meetings to facilitate discussions and ensure alignment with planning objectives. Subsequently, detailed designs for the events space and bistro were submitted for planning approval in November 2023, with consent granted in December 2024.

Historical Context and Sensitivity

Caistor Hall’s location is steeped in history, with archaeological surveys uncovering remnants of Roman roads, ditches, and buildings. To honour these discoveries, our approach thoughtfully incorporates these findings, ensuring the development respects and preserves the site’s historical significance.