When the time came for the installation of a new fire system, the iconic Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian – selected Hyfire’s state-of-the-art wireless devices. More than 1,300 Hyfire Taurus devices were installed by Marlowe Fire and Security, covering 240 guest rooms and multiple communal spaces in the seven-storey luxury hotel.
The history of the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh
Originally part of the former Caledonian Station, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh has been a landmark at the western end of Princes Street since it opened in December 1903. As a five-star hotel, ensuring the safety of its guests with minimal disruption – and no room closures during the installation – was of paramount importance. With its rich history and complex internal layout, the challenges of installing a wired system in this architectural marvel were manifold, from cost to inconvenience. The decision to opt for a wireless system from Hyfire, combined with Advanced MxPro fire panels, made it possible to integrate the system with minimal inconvenience to guests and virtually no impact on the hotel’s celebrated aesthetic.
Dan Thorburn, Project Commissioning Engineer at Marlowe Fire and Security, said: “The Waldorf Caledonian isn’t just any hotel; it’s a monument to Edinburgh’s grand past and its vibrant present. Taking on this project was a big test journey for us, combining modern safety requirements with the delicate preservation of heritage. The sheer scale and historical significance of the building made it clear that traditional wired solutions wouldn’t suffice. The architectural complexities combined with our commitment to an uninterrupted guest experience – the whole hotel remained open throughout – created unique challenges.”
The benefits of wireless systems for Hotels
The hospitality sector must always prioritise the safety of both guests and staff. However, keeping systems up-to-date, especially when the hotel is very old and iconic, can be tricky, as traditional wired systems would require intrusive and invasive work. Hence the need for wireless technology. Hyfire’s Taurus Wireless Fire Alarm System is quick and easy to install. After surveying the location, the team can effortlessly set up the devices off-site making the installation seamless, with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.
“Hyfire’s wireless devices offered a path that traditional systems couldn’t. By utilising 90% less wiring, we were not only able to significantly reduce installation complexities, but also ensured the hotel’s existing fire alarm system could operate unhindered until our new system was fully commissioned. In an environment like The Caledonian, where even the slightest disruption to the fabric needs to be cleared by Historic Environment Scotland, the adaptability and flexibility of the Taurus devices was invaluable.”
It’s clear that the future of fire safety lies in wireless systems, and this historic installation of revolutionary technology in such an iconic Edinburgh landmark is a testament to the inevitable change on the horizon. Hyfire’s systems allow for the safeguard of not just people, but prestigious and monumental buildings, without the need for extensive work that may alter the integrity of the structure.
Robert Bruce, National Key Account Manager at Hyfire, added: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of such a prestigious project. Hyfire wireless devices are designed for situations exactly like this, where the demands of the historic built environment require flexible yet uncompromising solutions. The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh is now equipped with a state-of-the-art fire system, ensuring the safety of its guests and preserving its rich history for future generations.”