Twr Y Felin Hotel: Short-listed for a Civic Trust Award

WALES’ first contemporary art hotel, Twr y Felin in St Davids has been named a finalist for a major architectural design and civic contribution award.

Opened in 2016, the former windmill Twr y Felin, has been short-listed for the 2017 Civic Trust Awards. Established in 1959, the awards recognise outstanding architecture, planning and design in the built environment, which has also had a positive civic contribution.

Keith Griffiths, Welsh-born owner of the hotel is the Chairman of Aedas, the world’s fifth largest architect’s practice, but chose a local practice Acanthus Holden Architects for the project as they specialise in the creative conservation of heritage buildings in West Wales.

The Pembroke-based practice worked with Aedas Interiors on the £7 million refurbishment and extension project, creating a luxury hotel with 21 ensuite bedrooms.

Paula Ellis, Group General Manager of Twr y Felin hotel, Roch Castle and Penrhiw Hotel said: “We are thrilled to be short-listed for this important award and it is doubly rewarding as our architects are local to us.

“Together with our interior designers, Acanthus Holden have helped us to create a luxury hotel that is not only stunning and sympathetic to its heritage, but also provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our guests.”

As well as Twr y Felin Hotel, Acanthus Holden has also worked on its sister luxury stay properties in the area, Roch Castle – a 12th century Norman castle and Penrhiw Hotel – a former Victorian vicarage and later priory.

Paula Ellis added: “In addition to the restoration which has extended the life of this landmark property, Twr y Felin Hotel has had a hugely important influence on the local community. The ethos of the business is to create positive community links and to contribute to the success of Pembrokeshire’s hospitality industry.

“Just under 40 people from the local area are employed in permanent, year round jobs; whenever possible, produce is sourced locally and Twr y Felin regularly supports local organisation and charity fundraising events.”

Twr y Felin Hotel will now go forward to the national and international judging stage along with three other Welsh projects – Harlech Castle Visitor Centre, Gwynedd, The Marine Centre Wales in Anglesey and the Welsh Water Visitor & Watersports Centres, Monmouthshire.