Plans are moving forward to transform an iconic building in Belfast city centre into a new hotel-like workspace.

A construction team comprising of contractor GRAHAM, Johnston Houston, Like Architects, Simpson & Crawford and Arup will oversee the redevelopment of Eagle Star House on Upper Queen Street.

GRAHAM will deliver refurbishment works under a £4.5 million contract, converting the iconic building on Upper Queen Street into a flexible, design-led workspace with more than 500 desks spread over 30,000 sq ft. This includes both exterior and interior works.

This project is being delivered on behalf of NI-based investor and developer, Magell Limited.

Commenting on the award, Stephen Johnston, GRAHAM Contracts Director – Interior Fit-Out, said: "Magell Limited has a clear vision to establish 'a new excellence' in flexible working in Belfast with a core objective of truly meeting the constantly evolving needs of businesses. 

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"Eagle Star House will house Belfast's first truly design-led flexible workspace and the style and quality of the fit-out are key to achieving that."

Ryan Walker, Director at Magell Limited, added: "The way people want to work is continuing to change and businesses in Belfast want Grade A workspace to be more flexible and accessible. With a central location on Upper Queen Street we believe there is a fantastic opportunity to redefine workspace which facilitates real flexibility for growing businesses.

"When complete, Eagle Star House will resemble a hotel rather than traditional offices, providing our members with a superior working environment complete with meeting rooms, phone booths, focus rooms, offices, central lounge areas, event space, a large roof terrace, sofas and a café. We will also be one of the first flexible workspace providers to house a dedicated wellness room to support the mental and physical wellbeing of members."

The developer is also progressing plans to add Beaufort House on Wellington Place to its flexible workspace portfolio.

The newly refurbished Eagle Star House is due to open for business in early 2020.

The entire project is expected to cost in the region of £5.5m once complete. 

(CM/JG)