Regent Hotel, Cambridge

Twenty-Nine Architecture was commissioned by a local hotelier to reimagine a historically significant yet underperforming hotel in the heart of Cambridge. Originally built in the Regency era, this Grade II listed property, located at 74 Regent Street, boasts a rich history. Constructed shortly after the death of George IV in 1820, it began as an elegant private residence. By 1871, the building was rented by Henry Sidgwick from St John’s College and became home to Anne Jemima Clough, an influential advocate for women's higher education and a key figure in founding Newnham College. This legacy endows the property with a unique cultural and architectural importance, positioning it as a landmark within Cambridge’s historical landscape.

The brief was to transform the hotel into 26 high-quality serviced accommodation apartments with a range of new communal facilities, while respecting the building’s historical character. Securing Full Planning and Listed Building Consent for this conversion required a sensitive approach to design and heritage preservation, integrating modern hospitality amenities with careful attention to the building’s original features.

Our design team faced the dual challenge of adapting a listed Regency property for modern use while preserving its historic charm and meeting stringent Building Control requirements. Key architectural elements and features were meticulously restored, including original moldings, windows, and structural details. At the same time, we incorporated modern amenities and communal spaces to meet the needs of contemporary travelers, carefully balancing preservation with functionality.

The conversion of this Grade II listed property involved highly technical detailing around existing features to ensure compliance with Building Control standards. Complexities included fire safety, accessibility, and integrating new mechanical and electrical systems without disrupting the integrity of the historic fabric. Collaboration with conservation specialists and local authorities was essential, ensuring that the project adhered to all regulatory guidelines while maintaining the character and quality of the original architecture.

The Regent Hotel’s transformation into serviced apartments has given the building a new lease on life, preserving its heritage while enhancing its financial viability. Delivered on time and within budget, the project successfully repositions this historic property within Cambridge’s vibrant hospitality market. By honoring its storied past and carefully adapting it for future use, the project exemplifies our commitment to respectful heritage-led design.