The four-storey hotel is an important building in the first phase of Rochester Riverside, also by BPTW. The design complements the Old Town with aesthetic references to local buildings of note and Kent’s vernacular materials and architectural traditions. Addressing Station Square, the hotel’s principal features include a three-storey picture window inspired by Rochester Cathedral’s renowned stained-glass window and a distinctive pitched roof that mirrors the region’s dock-side heritage. A rich and varied material selection of dark red and light grey facing bricks with black metal detailing and window frames completes the design.

Internally, the reception, restaurant, and foyer open onto the public square with floor-to-ceiling glazing to create an attractive, lively commercial frontage. The floors above provide double, accessible, and family bedrooms, each with views towards the Thames, the cathedral or the castle. Car parking and servicing at the rear and immediate access to the station mean that the hotel is easily accessible and serviceable without disruption to guests.

Rochester Hotel is part of the landmark 1400-home Rochester Riverside masterplan that extends the centre of one of South East England’s most historic cathedral towns with 656 new homes and significant commercial spaces. Including the hotel, BPTW’s Rochester Riverside Phase 1B won the ‘Winner of Winners’ Award and the ‘Building for a Healthy Life’ Award at the 2020 Housing Design Awards. Phase 7 of the scheme was shortlisted at the 2022 Housing Design Awards.