We considered it a privilege to be asked to look at replacing existing carpets in the reception, bar, hall and lounge areas of the privately owned Esseborne Manor Hotel at Hurstbourne Tarrant, near Andover. This venue is a delightful Victorian property set in three acres of gardens within the North Hampshire Downs, an area of outstanding natural beauty. The hotel is highly rated and the Hamilton family offer a quiet and exclusive retreat to its patrons.

The interior exudes comfort and quality and our recommendations considered the importance of retaining this ambience. Initially, it was considered that a hard floor may be preferable to the existing carpets. This would give better wear characteristics and be easier to keep clean. However, carpets tend to suppress noise (important in this environment) and the latest materials offer exceptional stain resistance, are comfortable to walk on and cope admirably with heavy footfall.

It was decided to lay 108 sq. meters of Scala Twist, which is designated a heavy contract carpet. It has a 2 ply yarn with a foam backing impervious to spillages and moisture. The special built-in cushioned underlay gives strength to cope with substantial guest use while reducing sounds. It has a 10-year stain and wear warranty and is bleach cleanable. It is ideal for use in most public areas such as hospitals, restaurants, offices and schools. The colour chosen was blue.

This was our first project for Esseborne Manor. As with a proportion of projects we undertake we came across circumstances we were not expecting. In the lounge, the previously used felt underlay was completely glued to the concrete floor. Removal tore the material apart leaving large tufts still adhering to the concrete. This had to come up which involved using a commercial scrubber fitted with a copper grinding disc (1); a messy, time consuming, but successful removal solution.

Once fully prepped the floor was latexed (2) providing a totally flat and smooth surface on which to lay the carpet. Once dry any imperfections were treated with a feathering smoothing compound (3) and rubbed down. The carpet, which had previously been cut to size, was then positioned and folded back to allow for the adhesive to be applied (4). The carpet was then smoothed into position (4) and cut around the edges (5). The overlap, between rolls, is a precision cutting process (6 and 7) so that the joins hardly show. The attention to detail fitting below radiator covers and around hearths was much appreciated.

Once the new furniture had been positioned the overall impact of the new carpet became apparent (8). The result is most pleasing and acknowledged by all concerned. We look forward to working again in the friendly atmosphere of this 17 bedroom country house hotel.