New details about a hotel, café and bar set to be built on the site of a demolished York office block were released today.
We have previously reported that a 132-room hotel had been given planning permission to be built next to Spark York on Piccadilly.
The site used to be home to the four-storey Swinson House office block. This year it has been demolished.
Now developer the Lamington Group has unveiled details about what will rise in its place.
It will be a room2 hotel, the first of this brand to open in the north of England.
Under amended plans, it will now have 116 guest rooms, a meeting space, laundry room and gym.
It will also have a Winnie’s cafe and bar, specialising in home cooked and locally grown food.
Work to build the hotel will begin within weeks and open in early 2026. The seven-floor building is a partnership between Lamington and York developer North Star.
The development aims to be built to net zero carbon standards and will include a number of environmental features, including:
- roof solar panels
- showers with wastewater heat recovery
- and CO2 sensor-controlled ventilation.
A Lamington Group statement said: “The room2 York design is based around a concept of ‘modernising medieval’ inspired by the city’s history and architectural heritage.
“The property’s design will feature reclaimed timber flooring, recycled textiles and restored joinery, evoking a warm and inviting space.
“Stained glass lighting pendants inspired by York Cathedral’s Five Sisters window, will sit alongside carefully selected lighting, upholstery and artwork.
“As with the brand’s other properties, the room2 team will work with local artists and makers to bring the project to life and provide a platform for the local community.”
CEO at Lamington Group Robert Godwin said: “Room2 York will be a fantastic development that we are delighted to be progressing despite challenging economic conditions.
“In line with our One Living Planet strategy, we are proud to continue the creation of long term environmental and social value for our partners, guests and community.”
There is another new hotel being built on the other side of Piccadilly, incorporating the former Banana Warehouse facade. This has 168 rooms, a restaurant and bar.
