Wednesday, May 21, 2025
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Design Focus: Seaton House

Seaton House has opened in St Andrews, and brings a measured blend of heritage, contemporary design, and locally rooted hospitality to one of Scotland’s most visited towns. Situated just yards from the Old Course’s first tee, the hotel is operated by Valor Hospitality Partners in partnership with the US-based Links Collection.

Michael Davern, General Manager comments, “Throughout Seaton House, guests will discover the lengths we have gone to in the renovation of this historic building, to ensure the hotel honours that heritage while incorporating many modern and softly Scottish features.”

The room offering has been developed with flexibility and guest profile in mind. At the top end, the sea view and garden terrace suites are designed to offer private outdoor space, generous bathrooms with both rain showers and freestanding tubs, and uninterrupted views—either across landscaped gardens or over St Andrews Bay. These are positioned for guests looking for added privacy, space and a premium experience without excess formality.

Junior suites provide a middle ground, with super-king beds and expansive windows overlooking either the gardens or the sea. Signature rooms carry through a subtle Scottish identity, with timber floors, oak panelling and practical, modern bathrooms.

There’s a focus on consistency across the range—clean lines, durable materials, and a layout that supports both short and extended stays.

Accessible Signature rooms are located on the ground floor, with adapted bathrooms and wider spaces designed for ease of movement, supported by natural light and soft acoustics.

Deluxe rooms are available in both king and twin configurations, some with garden outlooks and others facing the coast. These rooms are simple, well-finished, and designed for efficiency as much as comfort, with rainfall showers and views that shift with the seasons and luxury duvets supplied by Ava Innes, Joan Johnston, founder of Ava Innes comments, “Ava Innes is delighted to be the duvet and bed pillow choice for Seaton House’s most premier suites. Having our award-winning cashmere guard filled duvet, imagined in the pure air of the Highlands, for Seaton House guests is a luxury that can’t quite be put into words. Sleeping in Scotland, under natural Scottish bedding that helps you sleep more deeply, is a special kind of experience guests to this stunning part of the world will truly cherish.”

She continued, “We believe the ultimate luxury is a great night’s sleep so you can feel refreshed and your best self. A prestigious property such as Seaton House knows this, too, and it has been our pleasure to work with them to ensure their guests experience this luxury with Ava Innes.”

Dining is a key part of the Seaton House offer, with a clear commitment to sourcing from local and regional suppliers. Ondine Oyster & Grill, led by Chef Patron Roy Brett, is a seafood restaurant built around seasonal produce and Scottish waters.

The focus is on simplicity and provenance, with menus that change frequently and service that remains unfussy but attentive.

The Board Room offers an all-day dining concept, supported by Scotland’s first inhouse charcuterie room. Here, guests can select from a rotating collection of cheeses and cured meats, including selections from I.J. Mellis, matched with a curated wine list that leans both local and European. It’s a space that supports relaxed service without sacrificing product knowledge or quality.

Bow Butts Bar completes the food and drink offering. Designed as a quiet, whisky-led space, it features a wide-ranging collection of rare and single malt whiskies, presented in a setting that’s deliberately low-lit and reflective.

It serves as a hub for post-dinner drinks or small private tastings, with an atmosphere shaped as much by the stories behind the bottles as by the design of the room.

Throughout the hotel, the operational focus has been on connecting with the community.

Seaton House employs 60 staff, many from the Fife region, and has developed partnerships with local food, drink and experience providers. These collaborations are not just part of the brand narrative—they’re built into the guest journey and offer a level of authenticity that resonates with both domestic and international visitors.

“We’ve put great care into ensuring Seaton House reflects both the character of St Andrews and the standards expected of a modern, independent hotel,” said Michael Davern, General Manager.

“Whether it’s our commitment to working with local producers, the way we’ve designed the guest rooms, or how our team delivers service, it’s all rooted in creating something genuine and lasting.”

He concludes, “Seaton House is a special hotel which will captivate the hearts of our guests who stay with us.“

 

 

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