Burgh Island Hotel to undergo first major refurb since 1934

Burgh Island Hotel’s local council development management committee has approved the first major development at the property since 1934, with £3m of renovation having already been completed over the past four years. The new multi-million-pound development will be upgrading the hotel’s facilities, “setting new standards” for contemporary luxury. It is reported that the most “prestigious” element of the development is the West Wing extension, which will add 12 en-suite bedrooms over four floors with a glazed link to the existing hotel. The new rooms will supposedly have “dramatic” sea views and curved glass balconies that aim to complement the curved forms present in the original building and of the Palm Court. In addition to the West Wing extension, other hotel renovations will include an extension of Nettlefold bar, increasing the covers at the Pilchard Inn, renovating Chirgwin staff rooms, works at the venue’s spa and the addition of the new Bay View restaurant, among other renovations. Giles Fuchs, owner of Burgh Island Hotel, said: “I am so excited to announce this 10-year development project to ensure that Burgh Island Hotel’s reputation as one of the most glamorous and luxurious hotels in the world is maintained and that its unique heritage and architecture is protected. “Most importantly, this major development places our amazing and valued staff at the heart of our business by providing them with high-quality accommodation and the potential of a life-long career at Burgh.” Mark Raby RIBA, architect director at Jonathan Rhind architects, said: “It’s been a pleasure to work with Giles and Avalon Planning on the design for this unique, historic and inspiring Grade II-listed building. “Burgh’s fascinating history, topography, and the fact that the hotel is located on a tidal island, has made this project a very unique and interesting challenge. I must also thank our design team who have been fantastic. The hotel is truly one of a kind and we are proud to be part of its history." Jonathan Finch, associate director at Avalon Planning and Heritage, added: “Working with the applicant team and officers to ensure the proposals for Burgh Island are in keeping with the sensitive coastal landscape, as well as the Hotel’s heritage and history has been an incredible privilege. “We are so pleased that this comprehensive application has been approved by the South Hams District Council, marking a new chapter for this South Hams icon.”