News & Press

Harris Tweed to fit out five-star hotel

Press – The Herald

22.10.09

The rise of Harris Tweed Hebrides, the company based at Shawbost on the west of Lewis, continues as it claimed a major coup by providing the fabrics for Glasgow’s first five-star hotel, Blythswood Square, which is due to open next month.

The specially-commissioned designs will appear in every area of the luxury hotel, formerly the Royal Scottish Automobile Club.

This is thought to be the first time that Harris Tweed has been used for such a prestigious interiors project since the liner QE2 in the 1960s.

Peter Taylor, chairman of the Townhouse Collection company which owns the property, said: “Blythswood Square is such an iconic building in Glasgow that it was important we acknowledged its history while moving gently into the 21st century. The range of Harris Tweed which we have selected is very subtle and sophisticated and we’re delighted with the look that has been achieved”.

The building is intimately linked with the history of Scottish motoring and Peter Taylor said: “In the early days of the motor car, the seats were often upholstered with Harris Tweed and the fabric was worn by hardy motorists of that era. Making the connection with the building which was the former Royal Scottish Automobile Club brings us full circle.”

Iain Angus Mackenzie, chief executive of Harris Tweed Hebrides, said that Blythswood Square had been “a demanding customer but a delight to work with”.