The Principal Hotel
York
Goddard Littlefair
Bespoke Throws
This magnificent, Grade-II-listed hotel, boasting beautiful gardens and views over York Minster, was originally one of Britain’s greatest Victorian railway hotels, housed in a purpose-built building in yellow Scarborough brick by architect William Peachey and first opening its doors in 1878. After the hotel was acquired by Starwood Capital, Goddard Littlefair was commissioned to redesign its public spaces, as well as all 155 bedrooms and suites.
'Our overall ambition was to breathe life back into every artery of the hotel’s interior, giving a nod to tradition and heritage, but also creating a tremendously warm, light and welcoming contemporary environment for guests. We were briefed to reinstate the hotel’s essential character and to pay respect to its original architecture, whilst at the same time ensuring a feeling of comfort, restfulness, so that The Principal York was once again a true destination hotel.' Jo Littlefair, Director and Co-Founder - Goddard Littlefair. For the suites and bedrooms, the throws, in a beautiful soft wool, were bespoke-designed for the project and supplied by Bute Fabrics. Photography by Gareth Gardner.