Date Created: 15 March 2011
Kohler Co., owner of the world famous Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, is breathing new life into an equally iconic building, the neighbouring Hamilton Grand.
The project will see the historic sandstone building on the 18th green of The Old Course transformed into a collection of 26 luxury residences. Each apartment will be completely distinct, boasting Renaissance style and Flemish features throughout, giving owners the most prestigious address in the “Home of Golf” and next door to the Royal & Ancient clubhouse.
The building was originally designed as a hotel in 1895 and played host to royalty, film stars and many famous golfers in its day. Following World War II, it was bought by St Andrews University and was used as student accommodation up until 2005 when it was closed.
With its distinctive red sandstone exterior and bell-shaped dome, Hamilton Grand claims to be the second most photographed building in the world of golf and is one of the most famous landmarks in St Andrews having featured in the film Chariots of Fire.
Kohler Co. was engaged in wide-ranging discussions with Jim Mather MSP, the Scottish Government Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism, and with the Tourism Trade and Investment Team of Scottish Development International about seeking opportunities to expand its operations in Scotland. This led the company to purchase the building for £11.4 million in 2009.
After wide consultation with the local community, the company has received planning permission to start work on the £35 million restoration and development project to restore the building to its former Victorian grandeur while transforming the interior into 26 two, three and four-bedroom apartments.
The development will also will feature a private lounge, a stylish restaurant and bar and a private function suite and will offer residents the 5 red star services provided by The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa.
Hamilton Grand is scheduled to open in summer 2012 and marketing will begin in early 2011 through the international offices of Savills Real Estate.
Debbie Taylor, President of Kohler Co.’s Hospitality & Real Estate Group, explained: “We believe the Hamilton Grand will be one of the most desirable addresses in the world for golf lovers. The apartments will also have all the personalised and high quality services and amenities of the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa to provide residents with a world-class experience.
“We've already noted interest from potential buyers and Savills will be marketing these exclusive apartments in New York, Hong Kong, Asia, the Middle East, as well as Moscow and throughout Europe.
“This is a significant investment for Kohler Co. in Scotland and we're very pleased about the support we've received, especially from the residents in St Andrews in what will be a very exciting restoration project,” she added.
