Nucleus unveils Ballyfin; probably Europe’s finest country house hotel

Long admired as the most lavish Regency mansion in Ireland, Ballyfin re-opens in May 2011 as an exclusive country house hotel. Today, Ballyfin’s new brand identity and website, designed by UK design and digital consultants, Nucleus, provide a glimpse of the exceptional hospitality soon to be on offer: www.ballyfin.com

The latest episode in Ballyfin’s long history follows a period of eight years of painstaking restoration, involving many thousands of man days effort and many millions of investment. Now, Ballyfin is arguably in finer form than ever before – and almost ready to open its grand doors to an exclusive few who will enjoy this place of history and romance, tranquility and natural beauty.

Throughout the long period of restoration, led by John Reynolds, only the finest designs, materials, craftsmen, art and furnishings have been employed, ensuring the mansion and its 600 acre walled estate – or ‘desmene’ as it is referred to in local parlance – redefines the concept of the country house hotel. 
Attention to detail was also responsible for an international search that led to Nucleus’ appointment in mid-2010.

With credentials that include Amanresorts, Claridge’s, Dunhill, The Goring Rothschild and Luxury Explorer, Nucleus’ understanding of luxury audiences, together with its fluency in digital media and its long-established understated and timeless design aesthetic, made this UK-based consultancy the natural partner for Ballyfin.

Peter Matthews, Nucleus’ MD led the project “We are delighted and honoured to have been part of this extraordinary chapter in Ballyfin’s history” he commented “For the brand identity, in order to identify a way forward we started by looking back, choosing a coot as the brand icon. Coots are rooted in Ballyfin’s past and present, from the former owners’ name, the Coote’s, who once presided over this grand estate, to the black and white aquatic birds keeping company with ducks and swans on the lake.”

“For the website history again provided context, but also looked to the future. Simplicity is a complex business, but we designed an easy-to-use, elegant website that makes much of what we believe to be an emerging website aesthetic, influenced by iPad and iPhone in equal measure. We have, of course, ensured that the website is optimised for both. Online booking will follow in due course.”

Aileesh Carew, Ballyfin’s general manager added “We are delighted with Nucleus’ contribution to the rejuvenation of Ballyfin. Peter and his team have understood the ethos of this magical place and designed a brand identity and website that will help establish Ballyfin as a special and beautiful retreat from the stresses of the modern world.”

Visit the website: http://www.ballyfin.com

High resolution images available from Henriette Bahl
 hbahl@nucleus.co.uk