Zedwell Hotel to Transform Former Debenhams Building in Edinburgh
A change of use application has been submitted to Edinburgh Council to transform the former Debenhams Princes Street building into a luxury hotel by Criterion Capital Limited (CCL). After lying vacant since May 2021, CCL purchased the nine-storey building with plans to open Scotland’s first Zedwell hotel.
Luxurious Transformation: From Retail to Hospitality
Initially, plans were in place to convert the 116,500 sq ft space into a 210-room hotel. However, a new application has been submitted, including proposals for 350 pod hotel beds, a rooftop extension, and a rooftop bar and terrace for both guests and the public. Developers aim to revitalize the 109-112 Princes Street and connecting properties at 144-150 Rose Street, offering breathtaking views to potential customers.
Zedwell’s Unique Room Concepts: Crib Rooms, Cocoons, and Capsules
Zedwell, the luxury hotelier behind the project, introduces three distinct room types to cater to various guest preferences. The Crib Rooms, designed as the ‘premium’ product, provide an apartment-style experience for guests seeking an extended stay. Additionally, Zedwell offers Cocoons, described as a pioneering concept ideal for couples and families, as well as Capsules inspired by the Japanese capsule hotel concept, offering privacy in a compact pod space.
Expanding the Zedwell Brand: Affordable and Design-Led Hospitality
With successful properties in London and ongoing construction projects across the UK, Zedwell is set to make its Scottish debut on Princes Street. The proposed hotel aims to provide an affordable yet design-led experience, tailored to meet the diverse needs of groups, families, and solo travelers while preserving the existing building’s heritage.
In Conclusion: A New Era for Princes Street
The Zedwell hotel project signifies a transformative shift in Princes Street’s landscape, promising a unique hospitality offering that blends modern design with historical charm. As plans progress, Edinburgh residents and visitors alike can look forward to an innovative hotel experience in the heart of the city.