Formerly known as The Clarion Hotel, The Loughshore Hotel in Carrickfergus has recently undergone an exciting redevelopment programme as part of the complex’s new identity. Thanks to Tobermore, the hotel has been transformed with a stylish and practical new landscape created by Tobermore designer, Beth Moore.
The vision for the project was to revitalise the appearance of the courtyard by creating an inviting entrance to the hotel, defining a secondary entrance to the bar area, and access for the external smoking areas.
Belfast firm, Noteman McKee Architects was appointed as the design consultant on the project. The architect was briefed that an elegant outdoor space was the ambition of the scheme. This involved removing planting areas and sourcing new products to define different areas – potentially through the use of colour or pattern, while offering minimum cleaning and maintenance.
The Project Manager at The Loughshore Hotel was already familiar with Tobermore products and was confident that Tobermore could provide a suitable hard landscaping solution.
William Noteman of Noteman McKee Architects contacted Tobermore and liaised with landscape designer Beth Moore on developing a suitable landscape design plan. Beth’s design experience working on a number of high profile schemes for Tobermore was a major asset to the project.
William Noteman commented that he was just as impressed as the client with what Tobermore had to offer. “Tobermore products were specified because of the range, aesthetics, technical capabilities, and also because of the design service provided by Beth.”
The contract was awarded to Marcon Ltd, and Carr Construction was assigned to install the new landscaping products on the hotel grounds.
Tobermore’s contemporary Sienna block paving in Graphite, and Sienna Setts and Circles in both Graphite and Silver were carefully selected for the project.
Beth Moore created an interesting design that could define different areas at the hotel grounds through the infusion of different colours and stylish circular features. This achieved the client and architect’s vision for the scheme perfectly.
Tobermore’s vintage Retro block paving was used to create a clear entrance to the hotels main reception. Beth Moore helped develop the idea of the Retro paved entrance to act as a sophisticated “red carpet” walkway. Retro in the rich, blended colour of Heather was the ideal colour choice for this purpose. This design feature will be particularly effective for special functions at the hotel, such as weddings or gala events.
The contrast of modern Sienna and traditional Retro at The Loughshore Hotel works wonderfully together to create a unique look.
William Noteman noted: “We are pleased with the end result, and, more importantly, so is our client. There were no issues encountered during the design or construction process, and the service provided by Tobermore was first class, clearly outlining the products suitable for the proposed use.”
William added that he would recommend Tobermore paving and walling products to any architect, contractor, or developer. “We have specified Tobermore products on numerous jobs in the past and would certainly recommend their use in the future.”
The Loughshore Hotel is based around the historic Norman Castle, one of the oldest settlements in Northern Ireland, and is ideally situated for exploring some of the provinces top tourist attractions. The redevelopment works are hoped to mark a bright future for the hotel.