NG Chartered Surveyors has sold a prime city premises to the Igloo Backpackers Hostel, so that it can expand its operations in Nottingham.
Jonathon Seddon, director at NG, has sold 106 Mansfield Road to Igloo in an off-market deal that will see the company expand after outgrowing its existing premises at 110 Mansfield Road.
Jonathon Seddon of NG says: “It’s been a pleasure helping Bettina and her team at Igloo through this deal. Igloo is a rapidly expanding business, and we’re glad to be a small part of that. The deal was doubly pleasing as it will allow more people to come and visit Nottingham and stay in one of Igloo’s truly unique hostels.”
Bettina added: “I was highly impressed by the way NG goes about its business. Jonathon and his team were highly efficient, professional and friendly. I found them to be very approachable, informative, helpful and supportive throughout the whole process. They were a joy to do business with.”
Igloo is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and has recently been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence (2013) as well as the Hostelbookers Best Staff Award (Aug 2012). Its sister hostel, The Annexe was also the runner-up in the Best New Venture category at the Nottingham Stars Awards 2011.
Owner of Igloo, Bettina Kristiansen says: “We’ve had some very successful years and have now outgrown our shell. Well run hostels now have great homely and clean facilities, good security and offer the opportunity to self-cater and be part of a social environment.
“Boutique style hostels are popping up all over the world in central locations, and offer intimate unique affordable stays with heavy emphasis on cutting-edge design and focus on highly personalised service.”
Bettina, who grew up in scenic Denmark, arrived in Nottingham carrying her house on her back, and is an experienced backpacker. She adds: “I have always had a bit of a love/hate relationship with Nottingham, but of all the corners and pockets of the world I’ve been lucky enough to see and experience, something always brings me back here.
“Currently, Nottingham is an incredibly interesting place to be. Individuality, personality and passionate creatives are starting to pop up in many sectors and exciting independent trade is back in town.”
Bettina is now busy turning 106 Mansfield Road into Igloo Pods, which will have 7 private rooms (doubles/twins/triples and quads) with focus on comfort, practicality, design and innovation in a friendly home from home environment. The premises will also have high quality bathrooms and a fully-equipped self-catering kitchen/lounge.
She adds: “We’ve got big ideas and plans for further expansion in the melting pot already. Watch this space.”
