Project Description:
Nestled on the bank of the River Frome, on the edge of the Isle of Purbeck, this Grade II listed Country House Hotel was once a monastery which dates back to 809, making it one of the oldest hotels and even one of the oldest buildings in Dorset. The new green oak framed restaurant sits on elevated Purbeck stone splayed plinth with external covered areas on garden facing elevations. Greendale revitalised the riverside hotel which now boasts a new 60 covers restaurant, as well as kitchen, preparation and servery.
Clay roof tiles run at a 90 degree angle to the main building down towards the river Frome. Green oak roof trusses have been used to create a stunning vaulted ceiling with oak clad weatherboard walls and large glazed areas onto covered walkways, making the most of the stunning grounds and riverside views.
The structure is founded on short bored piles and reinforced ground beams. The roof covering to the restaurant area are natural clay tiles with a zinc roof system over the shallower pitched kitchen area at rear. The restaurant is linked to the hotel via a new glass corridor. Internal alterations and refurbishments were undertaken in main hotel to crate easier flow for guests from reception to the new restaurant. Works also included full renewal of all mechanical, heating, plumbing drainage and electrical services.
Architects: Reg Ellis and Associates
Surveyors: Brading Butt
Structural Engineers: B E Willis
“Choosing a contractor with a proven ability to build sympathetically, and to take into account the historic and aesthetic considerations that a build such as this requires was paramount to us. Greendale ticked all those boxes and the result has been hugely beneficial to all our guests and to Wareham and the Purbecks as a whole, with new and repeat visitors to the area.” – Managing partner of The Priory, Jeremy Merchant
Heritage