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Interior Designer: KDPA

Architect: KDPA

Hotel Group: St Austell Brewery

Construction: Carter Lauren Construction Ltd

Photography: Pippa Hudson, St Austell Brewery

KDPA has completed an ambitious redesign of the Pedn Olva in St Ives, a project driven by the desire to reconnect the much loved hotel with its dramatic Cornish landscape. Over decades, layers of extensions had diluted the property’s relationship with its surroundings, prompting KDPA to reimagine the building with a renewed sensitivity to the sea, cliffs and artistic heritage that define the town.

KDPA introduced a series of new apertures throughout the hotel, manipulating horizon lines to frame uninterrupted views of the sea and coast. These carefully positioned openings allow the natural landscape to flow inward, creating spaces that celebrate the character and creative spirit of St Ives. The client, already operating a thriving year round business, sought to enhance the hotel’s status as a premium destination while preserving the familiar charm appreciated by its loyal leisure guests.

In developing the new scheme, KDPA focused on elevating the guest experience at every level. The hotel rooms were redesigned with high end finishes that capture the essence of St Ives and encourage guests to immerse themselves fully in the town’s distinctive atmosphere. Public areas were reconfigured to raise the standard of the bar and dining spaces, creating environments that appeal not only to residents but also to locals and visitors seeking a refined social setting.

A key priority for KDPA was reestablishing a smooth guest journey. Years of incremental alterations had created a disjointed layout, and many external terraces had become inaccessible due to structural issues. KDPA revitalized these outdoor spaces, improving access and restoring their role as essential vantage points overlooking the coast. To strengthen the hotel’s dialogue with its environment, KDPA replaced the stark white and blue exterior with timber cladding, enabling the building to settle more quietly into the cliffside.

The result is a renewed Pedn Olva that embraces its landscape, revitalizes its identity and ensures its legacy for future generations.