The Tempus is a flamboyant new hotel set in the 150-acre grounds of the Charlton Hall Estate near Alnwick, which is owned by the Northumberland based hospitality group The Doxford Group
Known for its the exclusive visitor experience, this much sought after venue comprises a restaurant and bar, 15 boutique bedrooms including one majestic Boutique Suite and two Junior Suites on the second floor, with idyllic views of the private country estate as well as King, Superior King and Family rooms.
The hotel is a fusion of modern design and performance with traditional materials and craftsmanship and interiors inspired by the crazy imaginary world of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.
A sympathetic design
The design by Architects Saddler Brown, was centred around the old Charlton Hall farm buildings that had once occupied the site, including a traditional ‘E’ shaped stone barn with a gin gang, a dilapidated pole barn, and an old timber cabin.
The degraded buildings were demolished and rebuilt in a way that respected the scale, mass and character of the original agricultural structures and was sympathetic to the surrounding local environment and the 18th-century Charlton Hall.
Some of the existing openings, stonework and arches were retained as part of a new E shaped building, and stone from the estate was salvaged and reused. Traditional slate roofs were reinstated and the old round ging gang was rebuilt and incorporated into the entrance as the hotel reception.
The old pole barn was restored as guest rooms with new timber cladding and a sheet metal roof, and an adjacent farmhouse cottage was built as additional accommodation in sympathetic natural stone and slate. A fabric first approach and modern construction techniques ensured good levels of air tightness and insulation throughout.
Made to measure timber windows
Made to measure timber windows and doors from Allan Brothers were installed throughout the new venue.
Traditional timber casements and French doors with astragal bars referenced the style of cottages that had belonged to farm workers, and smaller awning windows helped maintain the agricultural appearance of a converted pole barn.
In contrast, expansive glazed gable ends, and modern patio doors maximised splendid views over the hotel’s front gardens and the rolling fields beyond, while arched feature windows added elegance to the bar and dining areas.
David Davies, Architectural Director at Sadler Brown said: “Energy efficient timber windows and doors from Allan Brothers were integral to creating a very traditional looking building to high performance and energy standards.
“We also considered it important to use local materials, contractors and craftsmen in what has in so many ways been a real community effort and a celebration of Northumbria.”
For more information about Architects Saddler Brown: www.architects-group.com