The World of Hospitality Issue 58 2024 | Page 18

FEATURE FOCUS

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection unveils its crown jewel in Edinburgh

- RED CARNATION HOTELS -
Red Carnation Hotels , the family-owned hotel collection , proudly announces the opening of its latest masterpiece and first property in Scotland , 100 Princes Street . Heralding the start of a new era at its storied Edinburgh address , this boutique hotel is poised to become a beloved destination providing an exclusive , intimate and authentic Scottish experience . Inspired by the adventures of the Scottish explorers who frequented the building as the former headquarters of the Royal Overseas League , 100 Princes Street is an exquisitely curated property that promises a journey into Scotland ’ s rich cultural , historic and nautical legacy . The hotel ’ s enviable location , a stone ’ s throw from Scotland ’ s National Gallery and directly facing Edinburgh Castle , positions it as a unique vantage point for both discerning travellers and culture-seekers .
Evocative of a chic private members ’ club and a celebration of all things Scottish , 100 Princes Street is led by distinguished Resident Manager Laura Jamieson . It features 30 beautifully appointed ensuite rooms and suites ; ‘ The Wallace ’, a plush dining room , bar and lounge offering hearty , local fare and an expertly selected list of craft cocktails ; and ‘ Ghillie ’ s Pantry ’, an elegant private dining room offering over one hundred whiskies and custom tasting menus . A collection of distinctive Scottish experiences , created exclusively for guests of the property , further enhance the “ anything , anytime ” ethos , for which Red Carnation is renowned .
Authentic design : where every detail tells a story The soul of 100 Princes Street is captured through its inspired design and meticulous attention to detail , a collaboration from the acclaimed team behind Botswana ’ s Xigera Safari Lodge and Ireland ’ s iconic Ashford Castle , with the superb vision of Toni Tollman at the forefront . Whilst the Tollman family has focused on protecting the architectural heritage of the building and lovingly restoring its original features , a wealth of twenty-first century luxuries have been added for its discerning guests , delivering every creature comfort .
Upon entering the hotel , guests are immediately invited on an artistic voyage , marked by a handselected array of artworks including bespoke pieces by the notable decorative arts specialists , Croxford and Saunders .
Among these , a breathtaking , hand-painted mural stands out , celebrating the daring spirit and ingenuity of Scottish explorers . This artistic marvel stretches the length of the majestic fivestory staircase and tells the story of the journeys of Scottish botanists , whose discoveries and contributions to the world of plants , trees , and flowers are depicted throughout , with each vignette representing a different location .
The style of the mural harkens back to the late Victorian to late Edwardian periods , reminiscent of vintage posters and postcards , giving the mural the feel of a historic book illustration from that era . Set against the backdrop of high-gloss handcarved woodwork , the masterpiece culminates at the top of the staircase with an impressive glass and bronze chandelier shaped like an adventurer ’ s hot air balloon .
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