It was formerly home to a host of Belfast’s most notable figures, from linen mill owners to members of the clergy and judiciary – and even an SAS commander – and now the transformation of a Victorian terrace into a renowned hotel is complete, following assistance from Go Succeed.
The Harrison Rooms of Distinction, set up by Melanie Harrison, a former food scientist who returned to Northern Ireland after years spent travelling and working across the globe, is now one of the city’s most distinctive boutique hospitality destinations.
Melanie has expanded her unique Victorian townhouse hotel from 16 to 28 rooms over the past year with support from the government-backed business support service.
Located on Malone Road, the bohemian boutique accommodation blends luxury hospitality with local history, art and music, with each room inspired by notable figures connected to Northern Ireland, including musicians, writers, inventors and artists.
Originally purchased as former office buildings after Melanie moved back to Belfast in 2012, the properties have gradually been transformed into an internationally recognised creative and cultural destination attracting visitors from across the world.
Melanie said:
“I had lived all over the world including America, New Zealand, Luxembourg, England and France before moving back to Belfast. I originally intended to convert the buildings into somewhere to live while keeping some office rental income, but I started with one Airbnb-style studio and quickly realised there was demand for something different.
“I’ve always loved interiors, art, antiques and storytelling, so the hotel became a way to bring all of those passions together. Every room has its own personality and connection to Northern Ireland’s cultural history, and guests really respond to that.”
Despite having no previous hospitality experience, Melanie steadily expanded the business over several years before embarking on a major growth phase which included acquiring additional neighbouring properties, adding a licensed bar and kitchen, expanding events capability, and increasing staff numbers to 20 employees.
Support from Go Succeed helped Melanie navigate that next stage of growth.
“Running a hospitality business can be all-consuming, especially when you’re trying to manage expansion at the same time,” she added.
“The mentoring and workshops through Go Succeed were incredibly valuable because they allowed me to step back from the day-to-day running of the business and properly evaluate where we were going.
“When you’re doing everything yourself, having experienced people there to challenge your thinking, offer advice and help you see the bigger picture makes a huge difference.”
Today, The Harrison Rooms of Distinction has become known not only for its accommodation offering, but also for its vibrant creative atmosphere, hosting intimate music performances and attracting artists, musicians, actors, journalists and international visitors to Belfast.
Melanie said the hotel’s communal and artistic environment was always central to her vision.
“I wanted to create somewhere people could connect with each other. On any given night you might have musicians, filmmakers, journalists and travellers all sitting talking together in the bar sharing stories and ideas.
“That sense of creativity and connection is what makes the place special. Everyone who comes through the door has a story.”
Go Succeed is delivered free of charge through all 11 councils in Northern Ireland, supporting entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage of their growth journey.
Margie McKay, Enterprise and Business Growth Manager, Belfast City Council said:
“The Harrison Rooms of Distinction is a fantastic example of how entrepreneurial ambition and creativity can help strengthen Belfast’s tourism and hospitality offering.
“Melanie has created a truly unique destination which celebrates local culture, history and creativity while also contributing to the local economy through employment and tourism.
“Through Go Succeed, we are proud to support ambitious business owners like Melanie as they develop, expand and realise their long-term vision.”
Funded by the UK Government, Go Succeed provides entrepreneurs with access to mentoring, events, grant funding, planning tools and business networks. Visitwww.go-succeed.com to learn more.