ABOUT THIS BUILDING

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EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS BUILDING

I have tracked the status of this beautiful building for many years and at one stage I feared that it might be demolished.

The historic building that I am referring to on Bedford Street in Belfast is Ewart's Building. It has been restored by the MSC Group and now forms part of a larger office complex called "The Ewart."

Ewart's Building History:

1869: The building was originally constructed as a linen warehouse in the Venetian style by Glasgow architect James Hamilton.
William Ewart & Son Ltd: It served as the headquarters for William Ewart & Son Ltd, a prominent linen company that played a significant role in Belfast's textile industry during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Decline and Dereliction: With the decline of the linen industry in the late 20th century, the building fell into disrepair and remained vacant for many years.

Restoration: In the mid-2010s, the MSC Group undertook a major restoration project, transforming the derelict warehouse into a modern office space while preserving its historic facade and architectural features.

Current Status:

The Ewart: Ewart's Building is now integrated into a larger 17-storey office complex called "The Ewart." The complex combines the restored historic building with a new structure, linked at the first and second floors and grouped around a central courtyard.

Offices and Amenities: The Ewart offers Grade A office space with modern amenities, attracting businesses to this revitalised area of Belfast.

Recognition: The restoration project has been recognised for its successful blend of old and new, earning awards for its design and contribution to the regeneration of the area.

Bedford Street:

Bedford Street is a historic street in Belfast city centre, once the heart of the city's thriving linen industry. It was lined with warehouses, factories, and offices related to the linen trade. Today, it's undergoing a transformation with a mix of offices, shops, and restaurants.

Here's a brief overview of Bedford Street:

Linen Quarter: Bedford Street is part of the Linen Quarter, a historic district known for its industrial heritage and Victorian architecture.

Ulster Hall: A prominent landmark on Bedford Street is the Ulster Hall, a concert hall that has hosted many famous musicians and performers since its opening in 1862.

Revitalisation: The Linen Quarter is experiencing a renaissance, with new developments and businesses breathing new life into the area.