The Vale Hotel

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Vale Hotel - Blessington

2-Storey Boutique Hotel

This project transforms the former Ulster Bank building into a boutique hotel that celebrates the character and heritage of Blessington. The aim is to give the protected structure a new purpose while respecting its historical features and maintaining its identity within the town.

The design combines traditional architectural elements with modern comfort to create an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. The ground floor is arranged as a public zone, including reception, restaurant, lounge, and a small cinema, encouraging relaxation and social interaction.

Circulation is kept clear and accessible, while service areas are positioned to support staff without disrupting guests.

The first floor provides a quieter, more private area with a mix of guest bedrooms. The layout works with the existing structure, using natural light, proportions, and original features to enhance the character of the spaces.

Overall, the project aims to create a calm and inviting hotel experience while preserving the building’s historical value and connection to Blessington.

Implications for Design:

Importance of insulation and durable materials
Need to maximise natural daylight within internal spaces
Opportunity to create warm, sheltered interiors contrasting external conditions
Use of materials that reflect local heritage and context

The site benefits from strong local accessibility:

Located within the town centre, close to shops and services
Connected to tourism routes, including the Blessington Greenway
Active pedestrian movement along the main street
Vehicular access available but secondary to pedestrian use

CONCEPT

The concept for the Blessington boutique hotel is inspired by the calm and natural character of the Wicklow Mountains. The design brings the feeling of the surrounding landscape into the interior through warm wood finishes, wooden floors, wall panelling, and natural textures.

The use of timber reflects the forests and outdoor environment of Wicklow, while the deep burgundy, navy, green, and earthy neutral tones create a rich but calm atmosphere. These colours also give the hotel a boutique feeling, making the spaces feel elegant, comfortable, and welcoming.

Traditional details such as wall panelling, arched openings, soft curtains, and warm lighting help connect the design to the historic character of the former Ulster Bank building. At the same time, modern furniture and hotel facilities make the space practical and comfortable for guests.

Overall, the concept creates a peaceful retreat that feels connected to nature, heritage, and the local identity of Blessington.

SKETCHES

Internal Sketch of a building, showing original entrance and Georgian Windows.

Sketch of existing external entrance, arched doorway, fanlight, and Georgian-style proportions.

Arched glass wall inspired by the original entrance door. Developed to bring natural light to reception area.

Sketch of original bathroom, view to Blessington nature.

Visualisation sketch to show restaurant area with a view to beauty of Georgian windows.

Internal Entrance door, showing original fittings. Original arched feature is present.

ARCHITECTURAL PLANS & SECTIONS

Proposed Ground Floor Plan / Scale 1:100

Proposed First Floor Plan / Scale 1:100

Proposed Section A / Scale 1:100

Proposed Section B / Scale 1:100

PROPOSED PLANS & SECTIONS

Rendered Proposed Ground Floor

Rendered Proposed First Floor

Rendered Proposed Section

INTERIOR RENDERS

Guest bedroom with bespoke wardrobe pull out desk area, wall panelling creating a calm and functional hotel space.

Ambulant bathroom with deep red/grey wall tiles, arched mirror, compact vanity, and a dedicated baby-changing area.

Timber flooring, wooden furniture, chosen to create a warm atmosphere while supporting a more natural and sustainable design.

Restaurant with original Georgian-style windows, burgundy curtains,floral wallcovering, bringing historic charm to the Hotel.

Hotel reception with marble front desk, timber wall panelling, artwork and guest interaction.

Bathroom detail with timber vanity, deep red wall tiles, deep blue accent wall, and contemporary sanitary fittings.

Guest bedroom with brick wallpaper, patterned curtains, timber flooring, and warm boutique hotel styling.

Bedroom detail showing timber headboard panelling, integrated lighting, bedside tables, and a calm natural material palette.

Guest lounge area with traditional wall panelling, dark curtains, timber flooring, and comfortable seating.

Bedroom workspace with built-in/bespoke wardrobe, timber desk with pull-out, cosy alcove, and natural light.