Contractor Russell WBHO unveils restored Victorian façade of Municipal Buildings in Liverpool which is being converted into a £40m hotel. Tony McDonough reports
Building contractor Russell WBHO has unveiled the restored façade of Liverpool’s Municipal Buildings as it progresses with a £40m hotel project.
Russell WBHO is converting the former Liverpool City Council headquarters in Dale Street into a 179-bedroom hotel. Singapore hotel specialist Fragrance Group acquired the Grade II-listed building from the council in 2017.
Originally opened in 1868, the 183,000 sq ft building has undergone a “painstaking” conservation programme. Influenced by French and Italian architecture it is constructed of sandstone with a rock-faced granite plinth.
The sandstone façade features ornate Corinthian columns, miles of intricate carved stone cornice, soffits and window surrounds, and a series of seven-foot-tall figures. They represent different aspects of the city’s culture, arts, sciences and industries. They also highlight the four major trading continents of the time, Europe, America, Asia and Africa.
Behind the protective plastic wrap, each contour of the elaborate design has been carefully cleaned and restored by craftsmen. They include masonry and restoration specialists Stone Central following close consultation with Liverpool City Council.
More than 230 existing windows have been restored and repainted along with the external ironwork at ground and roof level. And the lead coverings to the French-style curved roofs which have been cleaned and repaired. The clock tower, with its two-stage pyramidal spire, has also been given a facelift.
Gareth Russell, joint managing director of Manchester-based Russell WBHO, said: “Unveiling the façade is a huge moment of pride for everyone involved with this careful and sensitive restoration programme.
“The care and attention required can’t be underestimated. No matter how many heritage restoration or conservation projects we deliver over the years, it’s remarkable to see the building emerge refreshed after more than 150 years of pollution, grime and weather damage.”
Internal works on the project are continuing. These include the guest suites, Palm Court Lounge, Tea Rooms, reception, conference facilities and spa expected early 2023. Accor Hotel Group will operate the building under its MGallery brand.
Russell WBHO is collaborating with architects from Liverpool’s Falconer Chester Hall (FCH). They have designed the bronze clad rear extension which will house the swimming pool, gym and treatment rooms.
Architect Alastair Shepherd added: “This is quite a joyful occasion for the FCH team, to see the building without its wrap for the first time in more than a year.
“The conservation and restoration work is fantastic and the refurbishment of original features has exceeded expectations. It is one of the most important and beautiful buildings in the city, which we are sure will be enjoyed by visitors for years to come.”
The professional team also includes structural engineers Curtins Consulting, Koncept ID interior design and specialist heritage architect Stephen Levrant.