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Once the Moriarty Group forecast a niche market demand for a business hotel with a commercial advantage, they called McNally in to review the potential for what was voted the most romantic hotel in Ireland. The Leixlip Hotel set on the River Liffey was set to take advantage of western Dublin urban expansion. It had local demand and was a great tourism attraction.

In the early 1800’s the building was a Guinness family home complete with stone outhouses and courtyards. The new architecture needed to be sympathetic with the period yet functional and exciting in the expression of the bars, restaurants and VIP rooms. The function rooms and business centre had to have discreet hi tech facilities.

A two-floor restaurant took advantage of the views along the river and a link courtyard to the main building.

Double height glazing contrasts with the structure of the old style trusses. The success was to close in the courtyard and create another welcoming access from Leixlip town centre. The centre space became the catalyst for exterior dining and breakout spaces.

New architectural entrance statements for the foyer, restaurants, function suites and bars were created in a modern style but with traditional lead and zinc dressing. These contrast with the reinstated old stone details and roofing features.

Two different bars provide a historical visual link to the Guinness heritage home. The first expressed in the joinery and pewter used in the process of distilling. The second bar was based on the entertainment offer of a platform raised bar with seating under a daylight ceiling and a skylight of stained glass.

McNally Design Group was responsible for the planning and building control drawings, conservation architecture, interior architecture and project management and fitout.

The hotel is a resounding commercial success thanks to local and business community patronage and it received the accolade as being the most romantic hotel in Ireland in 2006. Project value was €6 million.

See other projects in Architectural, Europe, Hospitality, Hospitality Interior Design, Interior Design, Ireland, Portfolio, Pubs & Bars, Restaurant Interior Design, Restaurants.