Case Study: Northcliff
From uncertain to delighted
Client: Northcliff Serviced Apartments
Industry: Business accommodation providers near Edinburgh
Location: North Queensferry, Edinburgh
Project: Build a new website to match the business targets
Website: https://northcliff.co.uk/
The Challenge
When Elizabeth and Duncan of Northcliff approached me, they knew they needed a new website — but weren’t sure what that should look like. Their business had gradually shifted focus from holiday accommodation to longer-term business stays, yet their website still reflected their old identity. This disconnect was confusing for potential clients and didn’t reflect the professionalism or flexibility they offered.
They also didn’t want the rigidity of a full online booking system, as they needed the freedom to manage bookings manually to make the most effective use of their accommodation. The challenge was to create a modern, accurate, and inviting online presence that clearly communicated what Northcliff offers today — without compromising the way they preferred to manage their bookings.
The Solution
I started by listening carefully to what Northcliff needed, helping them clarify their goals and the kind of clients they wanted to attract. From there, I designed a clean, professional website that reflects their current focus on business accommodation, with clear messaging, updated imagery, and content tailored to their ideal customer. Rather than a full booking system, I implemented a simple enquiry form that gives them the control and flexibility they need to manage bookings manually.
To make it even easier for potential guests to get in touch, I added prominent WhatsApp contact buttons and clear call-to-action prompts encouraging visitors to phone directly — helping Northcliff respond quickly and secure more bookings. The site is easy to update, mobile-friendly, and built with SEO best practices to help them get found more easily by potential clients.
The Impact on Northcliff Serviced Apartments
Since launching the new website, Northcliff has seen a noticeable increase in direct enquiries from the right kind of guests — business professionals looking for comfortable, flexible accommodation. The simplified enquiry process and addition of WhatsApp and phone contact options have made it easier for potential customers to get in touch quickly, leading to faster response times and more efficient bookings.
The updated content and improved local SEO have also helped boost their visibility in search results, attracting more traffic and putting them ahead of less focused competitors. Most importantly, the team at Northcliff now feel confident that their website properly reflects who they are — and that it’s working hard for their business, not against it.
Although the Northcliff website was released only a few weeks ago, we’ve already seen encouraging trends in search data, with rising interest in key phrases like “apartments in Edinburgh UK” — a sign that the website is being found by people actively looking for the kind of accommodation Northcliff offers.
Top search queries are also showing strong performance for high-intent phrases like “corporate accommodation Edinburgh,” reflecting the site’s growing visibility among professionals and business travellers. This is a great indicator that the website is reaching the right audience and attracting exactly the kind of enquiries Northcliff is aiming for.
Phil worked closely with us, making the entire process incredibly straightforward. He took the time to understand our needs and translate them into a modern, attractive, and easy-to-navigate website. We are delighted with the end result.
Elizabeth of Northcliff Serviced Apartments