Dakota Manchester, the luxury city centre hotel close to Piccadilly Station, is investing £1m into a new-look terrace which will offer space for private events and even classic afternoon tea for the first time.
The £30m hotel, which launched last May, boasts 137 rooms including 20 suites over eight floors and is also home to a ‘cigar garden’, a champagne room, and a brasserie restaurant with waterside views across Piccadilly Basin.
The latest plans will see an extensive refurbishment of its waterside terrace which will be unveiled in spring.
The 170m terrace will be a dedicated outdoor space, with retractable canopies to the roof and sides for sunnier days - which means it can be used all year round for al fresco drinking and dining as well as available for exclusive use and events for up to 80 guests seated and 100 standing.
A minimal structure will frame the terrace, with venetian fencing and stone covered flooring to create a modern, contemporary feel.
The redesign concept has been created by KPP Architects and features ‘cool, understated seating and dining areas and muted tones of luxe décor’ alongside green foliage and climbing trees.
Dakota Manchester’s general manager, Matt Townley, said there has been strong demand from customers who not only want a private event space but want to use the terrace throughout the year.
“At the moment we are not able to offer room for private events and the new investment will mean not only can we do that, but we can also open up the terrace for all occasions and all weather conditions allowing for private events, drinks receptions and al fresco dining.
“It will be a multifunctional bar space that can be covered and uncovered for warmer days and evenings.
“We will also be introducing afternoon tea on the terrace and I can promise you it will be the best venue for classic afternoon tea in the city.”
He added: “We are committed to Manchester and this investment shows that commitment.”
The hotel, which employs 120 staff, has been popular with both domestic and international customers including celebrities and entertainment groups.
Said Townley: “We have had customers from the US, Asia and the Middle East, but what has been interesting to see is the number of local people that come here whether that’s to stay or to eat and drink.”
He continued: “We’re fast approaching our one year anniversary and I’m pleased to say it’s been a strong eight months so far.
“The city of Manchester has really embraced us and people are beginning to understand what Dakota is really about.
“We are proud of our ‘restaurant with rooms’ concept as we’re not just about the rooms but offering the best in food and beverage.
“It’s why our bar and grill is doing well and we’re almost always full for Sunday lunch.
“So we’re really excited about our plans for 2020.”
