The Kingsley Hotel, in Cork, has launched its new look, which takes inspiration from the hotel’s setting, on the banks of the River Lee.
Interior designer Sinéad Cassidy has updated Fairbanks Restaurant, the K Lounge, Fishers Bar, the library and breakfast serving room, the main entrance, known as the ‘glass box’, the reception lobby, the corridors linking reception to the lift lobby, the large lift lobby area, the Deane-Woodward Suite function room, four meeting rooms, and two restrooms.
Irish Artists
The designers also chose to incorporate the history of the hotel’s original site, Cork’s Lee Baths, which operated from 1934 until 1986, including a number of framed archived photographs along the corridors, to accompany a painting that the Kingsley commissioned by renowned artist Oonagh Hurley for Fairbanks Restaurant, showing the diving board at the site of the old baths.
Throughout the establishment, guests will also find work from many Irish artists and local photographers, including Ted Murphy, Carmel Smyth and Sorcha Cloney.
‘Botanical Theme’
The public spaces in the main reception area, where food and beverages can now be served, have gained additional seating.
The team at the Kingsley incorporated a ‘strong botanical theme’ throughout the public spaces, with significant investment in indoor greenery and planters.
Local Suppliers
Other design features include bespoke pendant lighting from local suppliers Lightplan Cork and Mullan Lighting in the entrance, reception, Fairbanks Restaurant, and the Deane-Woodward Suite.
This is complemented by metallic gold- and bronze-textured wallpaper set alongside green corduroy-effect vinyl wall coverings and wallpapers packed full of botanical influences and water themes.
The new look features herringbone flooring, bespoke chairs from Irish suppliers, and new chairs and seating zones from local upholsterers Finline and Abbey Owney.
‘Vibrant New Look’
“We are delighted with the vibrant new look of the Kingsley’s public spaces,” said Fergal Harte, general manager.
“The chosen colours, soft furnishings, artwork and design features beautifully link our special location and history, while creating welcoming spaces that work for a busy city hotel.
“I’m looking forward to meeting locals and guests and hearing their feedback over the coming months.”
