Albert Square Chop House And Boutique Hotel Steels Itself

IT’S good to see things moving, to see a development developing.

This was a vital operation for the long-term future of the building and took the Memorial Hall from nineteenth to the twenty first century.

Thus the Memorial Hall in Albert Square, built in 1866 and designed by Thomas Worthington, took a giant step towards becoming a new boutique hotel this week.

A 200ft crane lifted in the first of the full height steel beams which will support the installation of a new fifth floor. Three new five storey beams were inserted vertically through three holes cut through the roof and then dropped down the full height of the building. They will support the structural works to create a second floor of bedrooms above the new Albert Square Chop House – which is currently being fitted out.

Old and new together 

The Victorian Chop House Company’s owner Roger Ward said, “This was a vital operation for the long-term future of the building and took the Memorial Hall from nineteenth to the twenty first century. These steel beams will convert the space into something which can be used commercially. It looked really dramatic and I suppose it is, because this is the part of the project which actually transforms the empty building into one with a new life.”

James Webber, of builders Barnfield Construction, said, “It’s fantastic to be involved with such a prestigious building in such a great location. We worked overnight because we had to close the roads. I’m really pleased that everything went to plan.”

The Chop House is due to open this November – with a 70-seater restaurant, an 80-cover brasserie bar and a new function floor.

This will feature the Thomas Worthington boardroom, seating up to 20 for business meetings and private dining – overlooking the Town Hall. And also a large suite called the Memorial Hall will be available for business events, parties and weddings – seating 100 or more.

The hotel is scheduled to open in 2013. It will be called the Albert Square Inn and feature eight luxury suites.

The photographs on this page come from Paul Wolfgang Webster.  

A Model Site For Barnfield

Ian Grice, Ged Connor Of Architects Hurdrolland With Roger Ward

It Wasn't Like This In Worthington's Day

Passing Through The New Bar Inspected By Joe And James Webber

Through The Holes

This Is Where It Went

The Crane Adds Its Light To Albert_Square