The Grand Hotel Birmingham to open its doors

The Grand Hotel Birmingham, newly restored and refurbished at a cost of £45 million, is to open to the public on November 4 2020 as part of a phased soft opening.

The eagerly awaited launch of the luxury hotel, which sits in a grade II* listed building with ground-floor shops, bars and offices, will deliver 185 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, as well as a glamorous cocktail bar Madeleine.

And when the hotel fully opens next year, these will be joined by an outdoor garden terrace; two bars; a destination restaurant; a hotel gym; and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces.

Interior design by Robert Angell Design International reflects the passion and spirit of contemporary Birmingham while paying homage to the building’s original features and history. When the hotel opens for the first time, it will be the first opportunity for guests to admire the restored French Renaissance exterior, Victorian and Arts & Crafts features, the ornate Louis XIV-style grand ballroom, as well as the penthouse suites that enjoy views across St Phillip’s Cathedral.

The building has a rich history: it was developed by Isaac Horton in the late 19th century and it has remained in the Horton family since. The doors closed almost 20 years ago and the family explored a number of ways to bring it back into use.

The restoration and refurbishment has been led by global private investment group Starwood Capital Group, in partnership with Hortons’ Estate, Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, Birmingham City Council, and Finance Birmingham.

Richard Norgrove, Property Director of Hortons’ Estate, said: “After nearly 20 years of being deserted, new life has been breathed into the Grandam.

“The last operator of the hotel, Queens Moat Houses, closed its doors on the hotel in 2003 and it has remained vacant since. Time was not been kind on the building, but there has been a desire by the family to try and bring the building back into use. The development became a challenge, but after years of blood, sweat, tears and a lot of money, the latest milestone in its regeneration has been reached.

“The external facade is a magnificent sight and provides a real imposing presence on Colmore Row. Inside the Grand staircase has been reinstated, and the enchanting ballroom has created a real sense of style and will no doubt be one of the best places to be.

“Over the years the building has attracted its fair share of celebrities, such as Laurel and Hardy, the Rolling Stones and prime ministers including Margaret Thatcher. We hope the hotel will once again become a focal point in the city for business and pleasure. It is indeed a grand place!”

Peter Kienast, General Manager of The Grand Hotel Birmingham, said: “We’re very excited about opening our doors to the public; we can’t wait to reveal the stunning restoration that has seen one of the city’s most iconic buildings returned to glory. We’ve carefully considered how to create a 21st-century luxury experience alongside measures to ensure the safest experience for our guests and colleagues.

“We’re looking forward to providing visitors to Birmingham – and locals alike – with a truly one-of-a-kind destination that combines the splendour and heritage of this landmark building with the energy and vibrancy of 21st-century Birmingham.”