Heritage buildings and their sympathetic restorations are integral to maintaining and showcasing the finest British architecture.
Many families, trusts and business owners tackle the unique challenge of restoring unusual and historic buildings to their original grandeur and transforming them into public spaces, hotels, and private country homes. South Yorkshire’s Wentworth Woodhouse, one of England’s grandest stately homes is currently going through a huge restoration project, and Castle Drogo - England’s ‘last castle’ – was completed summer 2022.
Alan and Angela Harper are no strangers to the boom in restoration as owners of Palé Hall, situated in the tranquil Dee Valley on the edge of Snowdonia. The Harpers had originally planned to keep the estate as a home for themselves until they toured the grounds and house in 2015 and had a change of heart. Using Alan’s business savvy knowledge and Angela’s eye for decorating, the couple transformed the outdated property into a truly luxurious, award-winning boutique hotel, maintaining that homely and welcoming atmosphere while boasting five-star service.
We go behind the doors at Palé Hall to speak with Alan and Angela to reveal the secrets of restoring this stunning country house into a boutique hotel.
