The goal and vision of bbf: for Berengaria remains to restore this historic and iconic building for Cyprus in a way that will allow it to once again become a reference point for the area - exactly as it was for most of the previous century, when it first operated.
This is what Andronikos Spyrou, Senior Project Manager for Berengaria at bbf:, told InBusinessNews in an interview published today, where he also outlined in detail the progress of the works that have been completed, those currently underway, and the timelines for the completion of this major project.
Referring to the contribution and benefits from reopening Berengaria, he explains that the completion and operation of the project - along with several smaller-scale developments in the wider area - will significantly boost local visitors. At the same time, it will attract people who could develop various business activities supporting both the project and the community.
At the same time, as Spyrou said that investment in the residential part of the project will offer a unique opportunity to acquire residential units located within the forest, while the renovation and reconstruction of the existing preserved hotel will allow visitors to enjoy the services of a luxury hotel featuring an exceptional spa and wellness facilities.
At what stage are the construction works for the renovation and maintenance of the historic Berengaria Hotel? Which works have been completed, which are ongoing, and what are the timelines for full completion?
The fourth (4th) phase of repairs and structural upgrades of the existing preserved hotel building is currently underway. These works began in 2022.
Once the current contract's works are completed, all structural upgrade works for the preserved building will have been finalised.
Within the repair framework, the main works completed to date include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Repair and restoration of all areas where the masonry of the existing building had collapsed.
- Cleaning of all existing masonry (interior and exterior) from external interventions and coatings.
- Cleaning of all masonry joints (interior and exterior). Repointing in accordance with the instructions of the Structural Engineer. Use of injectable materials for the building’s structural upgrading, always under the engineer’s guidance.
- Repair of existing reinforced concrete elements that could be restored, including removal of damaged concrete, cleaning of reinforcement steel, and recasting.
- Repair and structural upgrading of all vertical structural elements made of stone masonry to meet modern seismic design standards.
- Restoration of all existing lintels in openings (windows and doors) and of the perimeter beam supporting the roof.
- Removal of the existing pitched roof (including metal frame, timber elements, and galvanised sheets).
- Excavation of the existing building to the correct levels based on the architectural and structural plans.
- Construction of all perimeter foundation beams in the existing building, as well as ground slabs for the two towers at the north and south ends.
- The works currently in progress—and expected to be completed by the end of December (unless severe weather conditions intervene) - include:
- Installation of the new pitched roof on the preserved building (including metal frame and tile roofing system in accordance with the approved plans and methodology from the Department of Town Planning – Preservation Branch).
- Casting of the composite roof slab of the 2nd floor (the slab just below the roof).
- Demolition and replacement with composite concrete slabs of the existing floor slabs that could not be restored.
The final completion phase of the project is expected to begin in the second half of 2026 and finish in the first half of 2029.
The major contribution of the project to the region
What is bbf:’s goal and vision for the grand project of reviving the hotel? What will the project contribute to the development of the Troodos area?
The goal and vision of bbf: for this ambitious project is the restoration of this historic and iconic building for Cyprus in such a way that allows it to once again become a landmark for the area - just as it was for most of the previous century when it first opened.
The completion and operation of the project, along with other smaller developments in the area, will significantly increase visitor numbers to a region that - like many mountainous areas - has suffered greatly in recent years from urban migration and the lack of basic infrastructure.
We also believe that the completion and operation of the project will attract people capable of developing business activities that would support both the project and the visitors, and more specifically those who will visit Berengaria.
A unique investment opportunity in residential units and increased visitor appeal
What is the importance of the collaboration with Thanos Hotels & Resorts, which will undertake the management of the “Berengaria Luxury Boutique Hotel”?
The collaboration with Thanos Hotels & Resorts is highly significant for the project. Through their experience as one of the leading organisations in the hospitality industry, with many years of expertise managing top hotels in Cyprus and abroad, they will offer the hotel a unique operational and experiential identity - highlighting the property’s unique architecture, materials, and services.
Who is the hotel - and the residential part of the project - aimed at?
The hotel, as well as the residential segment of the project, is aimed at people who wish to become part of the island’s history, offering a unique investment opportunity in a development that is directly connected with it.
At the same time, investment in the residential area will offer a rare opportunity to own residential units located within the forest.
Additionally, the renovation and reconstruction of the preserved hotel will allow visitors to enjoy luxury hotel services, including an exceptional spa and wellness facilities - right in the heart of the forest.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
