And finally…former RBS building reborn as Scotland’s newest five star venue

The Edinburgh Grand, in the heart of the capital’s St Andrew Square has opened its striking, bespoke doors to guests for the first time since been having been closed by Royal Bank of Scotland more than ten years ago.

It marks the unveiling of the magnificent renovations of one of the city’s landmark buildings including the entrance to the incredible lobby and soaring atrium complete with gleaming black and white checkered floor.

Those behind the project said the work at the venue is set to redefine luxury accommodation, offering 50 individually designed, fully-equipped apartments as well as a selection of fantastic restaurants and bars. It is fully booked for its first weekend.

General Manager of Lateral City Apartments, which will operate The Edinburgh Grand, Gavin MacLennan, said: “The finishing touches are all in place and we can’t wait to welcome the first guests to The Edinburgh Grand. It is a hugely exciting day for the whole team – we’ve worked hard to create an incredible hotel tailored to the evolving wishes of our guests.

“Every detail has been carefully considered - from the beautiful art deco inspired interiors celebrating the building’s amazing heritage, to the cutting-edge technology in each of the apartments. The Edinburgh Grand is the ultimate home from home, and we know it will surpass every expectation.”

The venture is part of Chris Stewart Group’s ambitious Registers development, a regeneration and redevelopment project which is set to transform one corner of the prestigious St Andrew Square. The building was formerly the global headquarters of RBS and The Edinburgh Grand’s comprehensive yet respectful renovation took place over two years. The venue will bring 120 new jobs to the city and expand Lateral City’s workforce by 60 per cent, strengthening its position within Scotland’s luxury hospitality sector.

Old meets new as guests’ needs have been put at the forefront of the distinctive design with original features artfully woven together with contemporary interior design to create Scotland’s must-visit luxurious new residence. Authentic features, including original dark wood panelling, fireplaces, brass door handles and decorative cornicing, seamlessly incorporate with sleek design.

From the uniquely configured Grand Studios to the city’s most exclusive suite – a jaw-dropping three-bedroom, rooftop Penthouse with astonishing 360° panoramic views – the apartments come in a gamut of shapes and sizes.

Each residence is equipped with smart televisions, Bose sound systems and intelligent heating controls and a fully fitted top of the range kitchen. Bathrooms feature drench showers and oversized baths in addition to luxury products courtesy of New York beauty brand Malin + Goetz.

The Edinburgh Grand is also home to The Register Club, which occupies the west wing of the fourth floor, and also opens its doors today. The reservation-only champagne and cocktail club run by The Bon Vivant promises to be one of the city’s most elegant and sought-after venues.

In July the award-winning steak restaurant and cocktail bar, Hawksmoor, will open its first Edinburgh offering with 170 covers in the former banking hall on the ground floor. The Bon Vivant team will also launch a continental café and aperitif cocktail bar with a late-night basement hangout tucked into the former banking vaults below. Sitting proudly in its place on St Andrew Square, and showcasing the best of interior design, impeccable service and local food and drink, The Edinburgh Grand is the first of its kind in Scotland. It is set to become the most sought-after hotel booking and table reservation in the city.

Room rates vary from £165 per night for a studio apartment, to £2,000 for the three-bedroom penthouse.