An interview with Su Stringfellow, Project Architect for the Midland Hotel in Morecambe
Su Strinfellow, Project Architect for Union North, the firm responsible for the re-design of the iconic Midland Hotel in Morecambe, offers an insight into the history and rebirth of this 1930s building and what a stay here holds in store for groups.
Can you tell me a little about the history of the hotel?
Commissioned by the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Hotel Services in early 1932, the new Midland Hotel, Morecambe, was designed to replace the ‘tired’ Victorian building which already existed on the site, overlooking the bay and immediately opposite Morecambe railway station. The Hotel’s initial association with the railways was significant as it represented the emerging typology of ‘railway hotels’, intended to attract a variety of wealthy middle class clientele.
The architect Oliver Hill was commissioned to produce the design for the 40-bedroom hotel, which was to embody the spirit of the modern. At the time of its completion in June 1933, The Midland Hotel was one of the first – perhaps the first – comprehensive and accessible experience of a modern architectural environment within a single public building in England. It can be seen as one of many attempts to pull out of the depression by translating economic aspirations into architecture in order to boost confidence in the future.
What was the vision behind the project?
In approaching the refurbishment two things were clear; there was a need to preserve and make accessible the distinctive and significant qualities of the original and maintain the spirit of optimistic futurism; to look forwards and backwards; to be both reverent and brave. Care has been taken to underscore the building’s heritage value without resorting to pastiche. There is no mimicry, new interventions are deferential to the original but remain unambiguously modern resulting in a clear reading of Oliver Hill’s original design.
We wanted to disconnect the building from its recent past – to separate the building from decades of decline and a string of failed regeneration bids, to begin to describe an alternative future. At its simplest level the building, like the town, required a commitment, a statement of intent, an expression of confidence and some care and attention.
In your opinion, what are some of the best aspects of the design of the building?
Opening up the stunning panoramic views across Morecambe Bay to guests and visitors is an essential part of the new design. The majority of the rooms have sea views and the new glazed sun terrace is a lovely place to relax. I also like the colour choices throughout, which were carefully chosen to complement the historical colours.
Have you changed many aspects of the original design?
Many of the original features have been retained, repaired or restored such as the Eric Gill north west map of England and the Portland Bas relief, which has been relocated to its original position in the main entrance. Before the development began we worked with the heritage bodies and a conservation architect to map out the conservation priorities for the building. Some changes were necessary in order to meet the needs of a modern hotel; for example the bedrooms originally were not ensuite. We have also waterproofed the basement to enable many of the services such as kitchens to be located down there, freeing up space on the ground floor for function areas.
The hotel has accommodated the likes of celebrities such as Coco Chanel, Wallace Simpson and Lawrence Olivier during its heyday. What do you think attracted such high-profile guests through its doors?
When it opened the hotel was one of the first of its kind, unabashed and thoroughly modern. The British seaside was a fashionable place to go for the Beaourgoise – a place to see and be seen.
Why do you think the hotel has remained such an icon in the area?
It is known locally as ‘The Great White Hope’. As the only building on the seafront side of the promenade I think it has become a barometer of Morecambe’s fortunes – The Midland became as much a symbol of Morecambe’s malaise as it was a symbol of its former fashionability. A positive and sustainable future for the Midland Hotel is a prerequisite of an area-wide regeneration for Morecambe.
What were some of the trickiest aspects of the restoration?
The basement was completely flooded and needed a special drained tanking system in order to make if fully dry and able to accommodate uses such as the spa, which are now contained in there. Working with the existing fabric of the building and the unusual structure (pot and beam floors) placed limits and the planning and service runs needed to be carefully considered in order not to compromise the end result.
What changes have you made to ensure the hotel appeals to the modern guest?
All bathrooms are now ensuite, with generous walk in showers and contemporary fittings and finishes. The building is fully accessible with a passenger lift and two larger accessible bedrooms. There is wifi throughout and TV systems expected of a four-star hotel.
What can guests expect to experience on an overnight stay here?
A relaxing stay in a contemporary but sensitive refurbishment of a seaside icon. Look out for the cine-film stills on the bedrooms walls. The design development of the hotel involved much research and consultation for the team, and they were inundated with stories and memorabilia from past guests, staff or visitors to the hotel all with a fondness for the building and eager to share their experiences. Amongst these discoveries was some cine-film footage found at a car boot sale – the first and second floor room colours are based on these; there are six different stills and therefore colour schemes.
Does the hotel provide discounted rates or any special packages for groups?
Refer to the hotel website www.midlandmorecambe.co.uk for contact details and special offers.
Is there adequate coach parking on site?
It is adviseable to contact the hotel for coach parking arrangements.
Photo credits: Simon Webb