Latest news with #TARKA
The Herald Scotland
09-05-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Work begins on seven-storey capsule hotel in Edinburgh
The project, developed by TARKA Hotels in collaboration with award-winning architect Studio LBA, involves retrofitting a vacant mixed-use building that previously housed a job centre, office space, and retail. The new hotel will feature 242 beds over seven stories, including a rooftop Japanese restaurant and bar with views of Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, and the Firth of Forth. With construction already underway, completion is expected in Summer 2026. READ MORE: Pubs giant lodges plan to convert city centre landmark into 195-room hotel Hotel near fifth oldest golf course in the world goes on market Famous Scottish hotel re-opens after £20million facelift Lynsay Bell, Managing Director of Studio LBA, commented: 'TARKA's vision is to redefine hospitality with an innovative Japanese capsule offering, positioned in the heart of Edinburgh. This design-led project seeks to repurpose a redundant building, transforming it into an authentic and cutting-edge destination that not only invigorates the urban landscape but also creates employment opportunities. Creating a draw for both locals and tourists alike. 'In our design approach, we have made a point of celebrating the building's new rooftop addition. The façade is adorned with folded, origami-inspired metalwork – a bold reference to contemporary architectural aesthetics and Japanese culture. This intricate, yet elegant, feature serves as a bridge between the new and the old. Paying subtle homage to the building's original character while introducing a fresh, modern identity. 'Nestled within the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site, the New Town Conservation Area, and the New Town Gardens Designed Landscape, the project's location offers breathtaking views from the historic Calton Hill to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Providing guests with a unique blend of tradition and modernity, where they can relax and indulge in an authentic Japanese dining experience amidst the charm of Edinburgh's rich heritage.' James Scott, founder of TARKA Hotels, added: 'TARKA was born from our experiences staying in capsule hotels during visits to Japan—trips that sparked a real passion to bring this modern, affordable accommodation concept to the UK. 'We aim to redefine the traditional hostel by offering quiet, private pods that strike the perfect balance between the cost-efficiency of hostels and the comfort and design of modern hotels. TARKA is built with urban travellers, tourists, and business guests in mind—prioritising affordability, central locations, and sleek, smart design.'
Scotsman
09-05-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
New 7 storey Japanese-inspired capsule hotel with rooftop bar to open in Edinburgh next year
Watch more of our videos on and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Visit Shots! now Work has begun on an exciting new seven-story capsule hotel in the heart of Edinburgh. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Situated just off the St Andrew Square and directly adjacent to Edinburgh's iconic Princes Street, the new hotel will feature 242 beds over seven stories, and include a rooftop Japanese restaurant and bar with breathtaking views of Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, and the Firth of Forth. Taking inspiration from Japan's popular capsule hotel concept, the project is a collaboration between TARKA Hotels and award-winning architect Studio LBA. The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad TARKA Hotels promises to deliver an innovative alternative to traditional hotel accommodations. It is set to open next summer | TARKA Hotels Lynsay Bell, managing director of Studio LBA, said: 'TARKA's vision is to redefine hospitality with an innovative Japanese capsule offering, positioned in the heart of Edinburgh. This design-led project seeks to repurpose a redundant building, transforming it into an authentic and cutting-edge destination that not only invigorates the urban landscape but also creates employment opportunities. 'In our design approach, we have made a point of celebrating the building's new rooftop addition. The façade is adorned with folded, origami-inspired metalwork – a bold reference to contemporary architectural aesthetics and Japanese culture. This intricate, yet elegant, feature serves as a bridge between the new and the old. Paying subtle homage to the building's original character while introducing a fresh, modern identity.' The project involves retrofitting a vacant mixed-use building that previously held various uses, including a job centre, office space, and retail. Developers say initiative represents a bold step forward in transforming the numerous underused buildings in Scotland's major cities into purposeful spaces for visitors. James Scott, founder of TARKA Hotels, said: 'TARKA was born from our experiences staying in capsule hotels during visits to Japan - trips that sparked a real passion to bring this modern, affordable accommodation concept to the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We aim to redefine the traditional hostel by offering quiet, private pods that strike the perfect balance between the cost-efficiency of hostels and the comfort and design of modern hotels.' Mr Scott added: 'TARKA is built with urban travellers, tourists, and business guests in mind - prioritising affordability, central locations, and sleek, smart design.'
