Digging deep at The Ritz

The Ritz is to add to the glitz with a £300m refurbishment including a 53-bedroom extension and five-storey basement with a spa and swimming pool and parking for VIPs. The iconic London hotel was founded by César Ritz in 1906. Last year owners the Barclay family sold it to Qatari entrepreneurs.

The scheme has been designed by EPR Architects and will see a neighbouring building, the Eagle Star House office block, demolished and a roof extension added. ‘Basement digs’ have become increasing common in the capital. Claridges has been shortlisted for their now completed five-storey basement in awards run by the Institution of Structural Engineers, with result due on 5 November.