Premier Inn

This project was part of a strategic, simultaneous roll-out across multiple Premier Inn sites, converting disused restaurant spaces into high-quality guest rooms to maximise occupancy. The work demanded a dual-disciplinary approach, integrating complex electrical distribution and plumbing with a high-specification Category L1 Fire Alarm system across multiple floors and newly created guest accommodation. The conversion of the Premier Inn sites required a sophisticated overhaul of infrastructure to meet Whitbread’s rigorous brand standards while modernising efficiency.

Comprehensive Room Fit-Out & Electrical Infrastructure

Our teams handled the complete mechanical and electrical fit-out of the new guest rooms. This included the installation of full bathroom and shower suites, ensuring high-quality plumbing and drainage for the increased guest capacity. Electrically, we focused on guest convenience and safety, installing all plug sockets, USB charging points, and bedside power, alongside a robust distribution network centred on a Schneider 9-way Panel Board.

The team also installed a diverse range of lighting, from emergency lighting paths to ensure safe egress, to Mode Tiger Scene-setting in the restaurant areas and precision LED installs in guest rooms. By utilising 100% LED technology, we provided a “zero-maintenance” solution. Every electrical circuit was tested and certified to BS7671, and all fire alarms were installed, tested and certified to BS5839-1.

Specialist HVAC & Air Conditioning

A critical element of the conversion was the installation of a high-efficiency HVAC system to ensure guest comfort in the newly created rooms.

• Climate Control: We installed modern air conditioning units in every new guest room, providing individual temperature control and quiet operation.
• Ventilation: New mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) systems were integrated to ensure constant fresh air circulation throughout the converted spaces, meeting all modern building regulations for hospitality.
• BMS Integration: These systems were linked to the central Building Management System (BMS), allowing the hotel to manage climate control efficiently and reduce energy waste in unoccupied rooms.

Advanced Life Safety & Fire Door Integration

Safety is non-negotiable in hospitality. Our Fire & Security engineers designed and installed a Category L1 system, the highest standard for life safety. A key feature of the installation was the integration of fire doors with the alarm system; we fitted magnetic door-hold units that automatically release and close the doors upon alarm activation to contain smoke and fire.

To protect complex architectural areas created during the room conversions, we implemented FAAST FLEX Aspiration systems above specific guest rooms, providing air-sampling detection where traditional point detectors would be insufficient. The Morley DXc4-M addressable panel manages detection, fire door activation, gas shutdowns, and fire signal monitoring via an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).

Delivering at Scale

Managing multiple live sites simultaneously required a high level of logistical precision. Our ability to manage vast schedules of materials, from bathroom fixtures and shower units to 1.5mm FP Plus fire-resistant cabling, demonstrates our capacity to handle large-scale commercial conversions without losing sight of the details.

By deploying a dedicated team including a Contract Manager and Site Manager, HF met the completion date. Our proactive coordination with the main contractor, Dickie & Moore, ensured that M&E and Fire services were commissioned and handed over exactly when promised. These Premier Inn projects serve as a prime example of HF’s ability to provide a “one-stop-shop” for mechanical, electrical, and fire security needs. By combining technical innovations with site management excellence, we delivered facilities that are safe, efficient, and ready for increased guest numbers.