Penmaenuchaf unveils second phase of refurb

Penmaenuchaf in Dolgellau, Gwynedd, part of Seren collection, has officially unveiled the second chapter of its refurbishment of the hotel.

This latest three-month project has transformed five additional bedrooms at the front of the house and communal areas on the ground floor including a new “Mynydd” Lounge Bar.

The design has been led by London-based interior designer Nicola Harding, to evoke a “home-away-from-home” for guests blending timeless charm with contemporary elegance.

At Penmaenuchaf, Harding has drawn inspiration from Welsh mythologies, the surrounding landscapes and Victorian roots of the house to design interiors that feel both nostalgic yet modern.

The first phase of the refurbishment was completed in 2023 refurbishing four rooms on the top floor of the house, alongside the creation of modern kitchens.

Zoe Kedward, projects director and owner, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have completed this important second phase of our renovation plan. It’s been a hugely successful project working together with Nicola Harding Design and our incredible team of local contractors. Neil and I always jest that we love projects and reimagining old buildings.

“Penmaneuchaf is a true labour of love. Given the surroundings, Penmaenuchaf has always held a special magic and we’ve put our heart and soul into helping this special place realise its potential. With Nicola’s incredible vision and skill, our hotel reflects everything we’ve come to love about this corner of Wales – its creativity, warm hospitality, and glorious landscapes. We can’t wait for guests to experience what we have created together.”

Harding added: “We were inspired by the history of the hotel, as a Victorian mountain retreat, that had been passed down through generations. We wanted it to feel as if it had evolved organically, added bit by bit by each generation, an eclectic mix of pieces many of which speak to the stories and crafts of the local area.

“The colours – such as the greens and aubergine tones of the bar – reflect the colours of the surrounding mountains. The new hotel bar was actually the original hotel bar hidden away on the ground floor, but we’ve relocated it into the lounge to create a true focal point at the centre of the hotel.”