HOSPITALITY & LEISURE
ORIGINAL CHARM
The Solid Wood Flooring Company supplies hand-selected antique oak flooring to the historic Spitbank Fort Hotel.
At The Solid Wood Flooring Company, we pride ourselves on being industry leaders in the production and supply of high-quality engineered wood flooring. With years of experience and a strong reputation for craftsmanship, we bring our expertise to every project we undertake. One particularly prestigious and unique project was our involvement in supplying antique oak flooring to the historic Spitbank Fort Hotel. This endeavour not only tested our capabilities but also allowed us to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of a truly remarkable piece of British history.
Spitbank Fort Hotel, located off the coast of Portsmouth, England, is one of the most extraordinary and exclusive luxury hotels in the world. Originally built in the 1860s as part of a network of sea forts, its primary purpose was to defend the nation against potential seaborne invasions. Over the decades, the fort underwent various transformations, eventually being decommissioned from military use. It has since been creatively repurposed into a luxury hotel, offering a completely unique hospitality experience.
Accessible only by boat, Spitbank Fort sits isolated in the middle of the Solent, providing guests with unrivalled privacy and a striking sense of seclusion. Its remote location, coupled with its historical importance, has turned it into an iconic destination for those seeking a blend of luxury, adventure, and heritage. The hotel boasts eight opulent suites, a rooftop hot tub with panoramic sea views, a sauna, and numerous stylish entertainment areas, including a bar and fine-dining restaurant. What truly sets the hotel apart is its seamless fusion of historic charm and modern luxury. Many of the fort’s original architectural elements have been carefully preserved and restored, allowing guests to enjoy a truly immersive experience that reflects the building’s storied past.
Given the historical significance and unique architectural layout of Spitbank Fort, the renovation team faced the challenge of maintaining the fort’s original charm while introducing modern comfort and luxury. A significant part of this renovation involved choosing materials that could complement the antique aesthetic of the structure while meeting the high standards expected in a luxury setting. Nowhere was this more critical than in the bar areas – spaces where guests would gather frequently and where the design had to be both visually striking and durable.
To achieve this, the design team partnered with ourselves at The Solid Wood Flooring Company to supply the perfect flooring solution. After careful consideration, hand-selected antique oak flooring was chosen for the project. This material was ideal not only because of its visual appeal but also due to its robustness and longevity. Antique oak, with its rich character, natural imperfections, and distinctive grain patterns, brings a depth of authenticity that newer woods simply cannot replicate. Its warm tones and rustic charm beautifully complemented the exposed stone walls and historic features of the fort.
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www.tomorrowscontractfloors.co.uk
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