Richard Branson’s trendy hospitality company Virgin Hotels will be debuting its first European property in June, complete with high-tech, pet-friendly rooms. Jenny Southan reports
Located in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s old town, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh features 222 rooms and suites, as well as multiple bars and restaurants.
These include the Commons Club, Virgin Hotels’ flagship restaurant and bar that acts as a “modern day social club”; and Eve, a “vibrant, all-day dining space, offering a progressive approach to late night entertainment in Edinburgh”.
The hotel site is also home to a 19th-century church, now known as Greyfriars Hall, that has been restored and repurposed as an event venue. In addition, the hotel offers a rooftop sanctuary with views of Edinburgh Castle.
The Dressing Room has a full vanity, closet space big enough for two, make-up desk with a well-lit mirror, an extra-large shower with a built-in bench and toiletries by Arran of Scotland.
A nice touch that Globetrender notes is that rugs have been made in partnership with Lālla London, which specialises in ethically produced Moroccan rugs, supporting women’s weaving cooperatives throughout the Atlas Mountains.
The project supports over 180 female weavers in hard-to-reach villages, providing a necessary lifeline for the women and their families.
Top level suites include Richard’s Flat, and the Eve Branson suite, located under the bell tower of the restored medieval church.
There is also the Moroccan-inspired Kasbah Tamadot Suite, named after the Virgin Limited Edition property in the Atlas Mountains. Apparently, this room has a “secret second-floor lounge tented in traditional fabrics and adorned with festive lanterns and sumptuous furnishings”.
“Through dynamic contextual design and neighbourhood-centric influences the new hotel will be a cultural city hub, with a design that sustains the building’s heritage while adding a vibrant, new style to the area.”
Guests can also control all room lighting, thermostats and TVs, as well as order room service, directly via the mobile app, Lucy, which is exclusively available to Know members.
Lucy also gives guests the ability to check in prior to arrival and can be used as an access key to their rooms. It’s also worth noting that the hotel is pet friendly, supplying free “pet-menities” such as dog beds, food and water dishes.