Recruitment Firm Sails Into Belfast HQ

The international recruitment firm Grafton is set to occupy four floors in one of Belfast's newest landmark buildings.

The Boat multi-use development, sits alongside the banks of the Lagan, just off the city's Custom House Square.

The 14-storey building – complete with dazzling glass frontages and distinctive roof-top 'sail' - comprises eight floors of office space and eight luxury apartments. It is said to be the first building in the city to offer occupants the chance to live, socialise and work all under one roof.

Designed by Barrie Todd of TODD Architects the apartments – all with balconies – offer sweeping views over the River Lagan, Belfast Lough and Belfast city centre and are only a short walk from the centre.

Andrew Murray, Project Associate at TODD, said: "The asymmetric building features glass frontages and self weathering timber louvres that encircle and provide solar shading for the offices and the entire building.

"Access to all office areas are via two high speed passenger lifts and associated stairs, with each level having a glazed lobby and breathtaking views. Also included are audio visual access control, an intruder alarm interface on each floor and an integrated fire alarm system."

Beth Robinson, Senior Director at letting agent Templeton Robinson, commented: "The apartments have already been attracting intense interest and we are excited about the public response to the building as a whole.

"Everyone seems intrigued by the concept and definitely the design. The apartments are certainly leading edge when it comes to looks and also practically spacious, with the two uppermost units boasting double-height ceilings and mezzanine decked areas, affording the most amazing views of the Belfast cityscape.

"When standing in the kitchen, there is an exhilarating feeling of actually being in a boat and 'hovering' over the water, because of all the glass and the way the wall juts out, over-hanging the water below. There can't be many luxury apartments where you can stand in the kitchen and think you’re cruising down the river," she added.

(GK/KMcA)