The Store, Oxford, will launch in 2024. Located on Broad Street, in the heart of the city, The Store sits in the building of the historic department store and Oxford institution, Boswells.
Boswells was one of the world’s oldest department stores, family-owned and much-loved by the local community. In the tradition of great British department stores, it was a place of discovery – a treasure trove of toys, cosmetics, fashion, household essentials, a haberdashery, well-known tearoom and café.
Reimagined as a hotel, restaurant, rooftop bar, co-working bar and spa, The Store, delivered by Reef Group and EQ Group, will present a labyrinth of spaces to discover and explore. The expert hospitality team at EQ are looking to delight guests with a sense of curiosity and wonder, reflecting the rich heritage of the building’s former life.
Arranged over seven floors, the interior design has been informed by the heritage of the two distinct buildings that make up The Store. Both buildings have a distinct architectural language that runs throughout the refurbished and extended spaces. These have been sensitively worked on by Urban R, Reef Groups’ team of architects and designers, with multi-purpose open-plan public spaces divided into different areas through elegant design choices – reminiscent of a department store filled with moments of joy that entice – and juxtaposed with intimate corners, and moments of escape.
The 101 rooms are spread across the two interconnected buildings, with six distinct design typologies, some with plush velvet headboards, panelled walls, and bold art deco features, others with leafy courtyard views, a muted palette and textures that comfort and cocoon. Bringing the rich tapestry of Oxford into the space, bespoke patterns and furniture echo the tiles and patterns of the rooftops or follow the line of the city’s “dreaming spires” to offer uninterrupted views.
