James Thurstan Waterworth was European design director for the group, creating hotels and members clubs in Istanbul, Miami, Barcelona and London, and his new project will see him launch The Bradley Hare in June.
He is working alongside F&B entrepreneur Andrew Kelly to create the “country inn” style hotel in the village of Maiden Bradley, which sits on the Duke of Somerset’s estate in south-west Wiltshire.
The Bradley Hare “aims to be at the heart of the village”, which takes its name from the priory for maidens founded in the 12th century. There will be 12 bedrooms – seven in the main house and five in the Coach House – with many furniture pieces designed by Waterworth.
He started his own design studio Thurstan in 2018 and has been working on projects ranging from a hotel in Beijing to restaurants in London such as Le Comptoir Robuchon, and the refurbishment of a masseria in Puglia, but this is his first independently owned boutique hotel in the UK.
There will be a “dine anywhere” environment through the inn, including a traditional pub space, lounge, a dining area called The Snug and large private garden, while Skittle Alley will be a private dining room.
The culinary operation will be overseen by head chef Jake Shantos, who will champion a zero-waste approach in the kitchen.
Also in the grounds will be the Potting Shed, for vegan and organic beauty treatments and holistic therapies.
Weekend rates will start from £130 per room per night, including breakfast.
