Success Story
Facilitated by Whiterock, a £160,000 loan from the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland has enabled the owner of the Harrison Chambers of Distinction, Melanie Harrison to acquire an adjoining Victorian townhouse property.
| Region/Nation | Northern Ireland |
|---|---|
| Sector | Hospitality, Accommodation and Food Service Activities |
| Programme | Investment Fund for Northern Ireland |
| Partner |
Described as a ‘bohemian bolthole’, the hotel currently comprises 16 elegant rooms, each with their own theme and celebrating a person of note from Northern Ireland, such as writer C.S. Lewis and singer, Ruby Murray.
The development will see the hotel, which currently employs 12 staff, expand into the adjoining property with the addition of 11 more suites along with improved kitchen and dining space, a piano lounge and communal areas.
The process of working with Whiterock was very straightforward and the team really helped and guided me. I would have hesitation in recommending them to other business owners.
I had been a bit nervous of meeting my deadlines, but Whiterock helped me feel really assured and when the loan was agreed the funds were transferred in a really timely manner which helped me with my plans to buy the property.
I opened the hotel in 2020 in the middle of the pandemic and I honestly didn’t know what to expect as the world was in a chaotic state. In our first year we won a number of prestigious travel awards and we were so well received by our guests.
The deal with the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland will really help us go to the next level, building on what we already have and attracting even more people from all around the world.
- Melanie Harrison Owner, Harrison Chambers of Distinction
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