Hotel Indigo

Franklin Ellis was appointed by Castlebridge Group as interior designer for Hotel Indigo Exeter, creating the interiors for 104 guestrooms and the hotel’s public areas. Situated in the heart of historic Exeter, the hotel occupies the former House of Fraser department store, giving a prominent city-centre building a new lease of life.

Drawing inspiration from the rich history and heritage of Exeter, our designers developed a series of bespoke guestroom concepts alongside new front-of-house, dining and leisure spaces. The interior design is shaped around three distinctive neighbourhood stories: Exeter’s magnificent Cathedral; the fascinating story of ‘The House That Moved’; and the legacy of Colson’s Department Store, established in 1789 and associated with the pioneering Mrs Colson.

These local narratives are interpreted throughout the hotel, creating spaces with their own individual character while maintaining a strong sense of place. The public areas include three distinctive bars alongside a spa and fitness suite: The Dugout sports bar in the basement; The Retreat Spa and Becketts Bar on the top floor, with panoramic views across Exeter; and Colson’s Bar & Grill at ground-floor level, welcoming guests into the heart of the hotel.

The characterful Colson’s narrative continues through the reception and into Colson’s Bar & Grill, where the interiors draw on the building’s department-store heritage. The restaurant includes a private dining room and open kitchen, creating a lively and engaging dining experience within the hotel.