The Clover Group has announced that it has submitted a planning application for an exciting new boutique hotel development within the upper floors of the iconic Clarence Chambers Building at 18–19 Donegall Square East.
A £6m project, Margot Townhouse will sit above the recently redeveloped Margot and the New York-inspired late bar RUDI, creating 25 new jobs further and strengthening Clover’s growing footprint in Belfast City Centre.
Following the successful regeneration of the building’s ground and basement floor, Clover has commissioned Dickson FitzGerald Architects to deliver a refined townhouse hotel concept featuring 20 boutique bedroom suites. The suites have been designed to reflect the building’s original Georgian architecture and will offer uninterrupted views over Donegall Square towards Belfast City Hall, placing guests in the heart of the city’s cultural and civic life.
The proposed design balances heritage sensitivity with contemporary luxury with a standout feature of the scheme being the uppermost floor, planned as an exclusive-use offering, to be known as the Penthouse. This level will accommodate a single booking, creating a luxury multi-suite residence complete with a private bar and dedicated outdoor jacuzzi targeted at elegant leisure stays, corporate retreats, and special occasions.
This latest initiative builds on Clover Group’s recent projects, including a proposed new hotel project at White’s Tavern Complex, the reopening of The Linen Hall Bar and the redevelopment of the Post House, Margot and RUDI.
Commenting on the project, Mark Beirne, Director of Clover Group, said, “Recent projects that we are leading on reflect our commitment to create the conditions for people to, not only, come into Belfast city centre and enjoy its great hospitality but to do so in buildings that maintain its rich architectural heritage. This exciting new boutique hotel, located in the top floors of the stunning Clarence Chambers, home to Margot and RUDI adds an exciting new dimension to our offering with each suite designed with care to reflect the building’s history while offering a unique, modern experience.
“Much like our proposed hotel project at White’s Tavern, this planned boutique hotel will add much-needed variety and luxury to the city’s overnight offerings, creating memorable experiences that inspire visitors to explore and extend their stay in our great city.”
John FitzGerald, Director at Dickson FitzGerald Architects, added, “Working on 18–19 Donegall Square East is a fantastic opportunity. The design celebrates the building’s Georgian elegance while introducing a distinctive hospitality experience, with exceptional views and thoughtful interiors that complement the surrounding cityscape.”
“This offering will strengthen Square East as one of Belfast’s most distinctive hospitality destinations, combining historic grandeur with carefully curated modern comfort.”
The Penthouse Lounge and Bar will be styled in keeping with the building’s Georgian character, with dormer windows positioned either side of the bar offering views out over City Hall. Guests will enter the lounge from their individual suites through framed and draped openings on either side of the central seating area, creating a sense of arrival within the space. Outside, the outdoor jacuzzi will take the form of a bespoke copper roll-top design, evocative of the era, with the overall experience intended to feel decadent and immersive.