The Nursery Inn, on Green Lane in Stockport, is a pub with history. Built by Hydes Brewery in 1939, it is one of the few remaining inter-wars, (built between World War 1 and World War 2), pubs and retains its original layout and many original features. To recognise its historic significance CAMRA campaigned for the site to become a listed building and The Nursery was given a grade II listing in 2011 to protect this significant part of UK heritage.
Whilst a triumph for the protection of this historical site, the new Listed status created hurdles to ensuring that the pub could adapt to modern customer expectations and remain a viable business concern for its ongoing owners, Hydes Brewery. After previous failed attempts at achieving listed building consent for refurbishment works, MGI were appointed to develop detailed drawings and specifications to accompany a listed building application that would satisfy both the conservation officer and the client. After a hard-fought battle, listed building consent was granted, and the rejuvenation of the Nursery Inn could begin.
Throughout the design process, our designers took great care to ensure that the historic fabric, fixtures and fittings of the site were retained and protected wherever possible, such as the original wall tiling and terrazzo flooring throughout the WC facilities, lighting, bar serveries , fixed seating, wall panelling and the separate entrance to the “vault” bar.
New Finishes and fixtures were chosen to complement and enhance the original elements of the site with concerted effort to specify finishes that harked back to the décor of the late 1930’s but with more modern elements sensitively worked into the project to appeal to the modern customer base.
The biggest obstacle in achieving listed building approval was the proposal to move one of the existing serveries forward from its original position so as to be visible to customers entering the site, enabling staff to greet them as they enter. The Client`s appointed contractors WHB construction carefully removed the servery section in one piece and formed new end panel and over bar sections that faithfully reproduced the original materials and design. New back fittings were formed in the same manner.
Wall finishes specified were a mixture of heritage paint colours and Arts & Crafts design wall papers, with faux leather upholstery and floral prints utilised to tie the scheme together.
We at MGI are immensely proud of what has been achieved by the whole design and construction team on this project and are extremely confident in The Nursery Inn’s success as an ongoing business.
About MGI Partners
MGI Partners are an award-winning Interior design practice with decades of experience within the hospitality and commercial sectors. Our talented team have honed their skills and specialist industry knowledge to provide beautiful, commercially viable design solutions that meet our client`s specific brief and can be delivered no matter how challenging the project or budget spend is. We always put our clients first and love to work in close collaboration, to guide them through the design and construction processes to ensure we create spaces that their customers will love and want to return to again and again. With a range of services including surveying, site analysis, interior design, Visualisation, Statutory applications, branding and project management we tailor our offer to meet each client`s specific requirements.
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Akabeko, the latest creation from award-winning design studio 4SPACE, introduces a fresh take on traditional Japanese yakiniku dining. Located in Dubai, Akabeko blends the elegance of Japanese heritage with modern design, offering an immersive and captivating dining experience that appeals to both design aficionados and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Akabeko is inspired by the iconic Akabeko cow, a symbol of strength and endurance in Aizu folklore. The restaurant’s name and central design element – the striking Akabeko statue – celebrate this cultural symbol while anchoring the restaurant’s identity. The Akabeko cow, with its deep red hue, infuses the space with cultural significance and establishes a connection between Japanese tradition and modern dining aesthetics.
The design of Akabeko is guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and the transient nature of life. This philosophy is reflected in the choice of natural materials, subtle textures, and organic forms that permeate the restaurant’s interior. The design seamlessly fuses Japanese tradition with contemporary elements, making Akabeko a visually compelling space where diners can connect with both the past and present.
The interior of Akabeko showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The contrast of textured black walls against warm wood tones creates a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere, while strategically placed, indirect lighting adds depth and warmth to the space. These carefully considered design elements contribute to a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience.
Cultural storytelling is a key component of Akabeko’s design. The restaurant’s layout and décor are inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, from the use of bonsai trees as living art pieces to the intricate light patterns that play on walls and surfaces. The Akabeko statue serves as a focal point, imbuing the space with a narrative that ties the restaurant’s design to its cultural roots. The integration of these symbolic elements goes beyond aesthetics, offering diners an enriched experience that resonates with Japanese heritage.
Akabeko reimagines the yakiniku dining experience by combining the finest Japanese wagyu with state-of-the-art culinary technology. At each table, smokeless grills are seamlessly integrated, allowing guests to enjoy an interactive and intimate cooking experience. The presence of highly skilled chefs adds a personal touch, guiding diners in preparing their meal while showcasing the art of yakiniku.
Akabeko’s menu emphasises quality and authenticity, with a focus on premium cuts of wagyu, celebrated for its marbling and flavor. The combination of traditional Japanese culinary methods and cutting-edge technology ensures that each dish is prepared to perfection, offering diners a taste of Japanese gastronomy at its finest.
The spatial layout of Akabeko is designed with the diner in mind. Carefully arranged booths and tables provide a balance between privacy and connection, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate meal while remaining engaged with the restaurant’s overall ambiance. This thoughtful design creates a welcoming environment where diners can savor their meal while feeling connected to the cultural and social energy of the space.
In addition to its design and culinary achievements, Akabeko emphasizes sustainability through the use of natural materials and energy-efficient technologies. 4SPACE’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary global values, making Akabeko not only a celebration of Japanese tradition but also a model for responsible design and consumption in the hospitality industry.
Akabeko by 4SPACE is more than just a restaurant - it’s a journey into the heart of Japanese culture, redefined for modern times. With its thoughtful integration of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, Akabeko offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that resonates on both sensory and cultural levels. Whether through its design that celebrates wabi-sabi, its menu of world-class wagyu, or its commitment to sustainability, Akabeko invites guests to enjoy a truly immersive dining experience.
– Size: 240 sqm – Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Contractor: Laads Contracting LLC – Design: 4SPACE
Collaborators: – Furniture by Interior 360 and Al Huzaifa – Lighting by Huda Lighting and Folio Lighting – Marble Granule Flooring by Colortek – Facade covering solution by I-Mesh – Wood flooring by Lignum – 3D printed Akabeko cow by Proto 21
About 4SPACE
4SPACE is committed to high quality of work and superior care in all aspects of our business. One of the Top 20 interior design firms in the Middle East in reference to the Commercial Interior Design Magazine published last February 2019. Led by major partners Amjad Hourieh and Firas Alsahin, our company has become one of the region’s most respected firms, with more than 20 years of industry experience. We have helped create environments that inspire and impact users by providing the local industry with our extensive practical knowledge, be it for retail, hospitality and commercial spaces, or residential and living spaces. Our mission is to achieve success through delivering quality service steered by our passion for excellence, to define the region’s industry practices and to create market benchmarks of international standards.
The Victoria has been at the heart of the Withington community for over 100 years. MGI worked closely with their clients Hydes Brewery to ensure this pub will stand the test of time by bringing up to date the interior of this late 1800 building while still retaining several of its original features.
MGI brightened up the bar servery, specified new flooring, furniture, lighting and window dressings and the walls now adorn some brighter colours and stylish wallpaper. The back of the pub was opened up to enhance sport viewing with a new darts feature that can be enjoyed by all.
The atmosphere created suits both the locals who have been a constant feature of this pub for decades while attracting the students that come through the doors every year to enjoy Manchester's drinking scene.
The design has been a great success and the pub is packed nightly with all ages and professions and will stand to serve the community of Withington for many more decades to come!
What do you get if you bring together elegant, understated style and skilled craftsmanship? In this case, Ledbury Studio's beautiful new design, the Wimbledon Village kitchen. Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio, created the kitchen in partnership with renowned interior designers Hill House Interiors and the stunning results are a fitting showcase of their very considerable combined talents.
"We wanted to create a kitchen that not only complements the open-plan layout but also offers something truly special with artisanal finishes and custom touches," explains Charlie. "The result is a space that feels luxurious yet approachable, perfect for both everyday use and entertaining."
Ledbury Studio specialises in taking natural materials and giving them a bespoke finish, so every piece of furniture has a unique look. In this case, Charlie stained and coloured the oak cabinets with a grey colourwash, chosen to complement the scheme in this open-plan kitchen, dining and living space. For a luxurious artisanal touch, the cupboard doors are then inlaid with bronze marquetry, which beautifully frames each one.
In addition to the bronze inlay on the doors, Charlie used the metal for the cupboard handles and the kickplates underneath, and there is also a bronze tap. Meanwhile, the splashback, which reflects light back into the room behind, is made of bronze-tinted antiqued mirror. Bringing the wow factor, however, are the wall cupboards above the splashback. Here, the hand-applied textured liquid- bronze finish creates a real focal point in an already showstopping kitchen.
The comfortable bar stools at the island and large dining table show that this is clearly a space intended both for entertaining and family life. With that in mind, the relatively compact footprint of the kitchen has a practical layout with hob, ovens and sink all within easy reach. In addition, Princess Quartz was chosen for the worktops, which gives the cook useful prep space as well as the luxurious look of marble without the associated upkeep.
A fabulous finishing touch is the drinks and breakfast cupboard to the right of the kitchen. This essential station hides all its useful functionality behind pocket doors, which slide right out of the way when in use, but pull back over to create a seamless piece of furniture the rest of the time. And in a link back to the bronze detailing in the rest of the design, the glass shelves are edged in aged bronze.
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
Balan and Nambisan Architects have designed this modern industrial home for a young couple and their toddler twins, filled with surprises around every corner all the way into the bathrooms. Sitting on a quiet lane of a busy neighbourhood, this penthouse sits at a vantage point to watch planes take-off from the runway next door.
The house is split into two parts with very practical serviceability hidden away behind multiple pocket doors. One wing houses the entertainment pad - souped up with a media lounge, convertible guest bed and an indoor and outdoor bar perfect to bring the parties home.
The other wing boasts a dramatic double height family, dining and kitchen area into which the upper level of bedrooms look into. Chunky steel beams punctuate the volume, dipping low to embrace human scale.
A lush balcony with a Jacuzzi surrounded by dense foliage acts as an oasis amidst a concrete jungle.
Each sleep-suite is fully equipped with the works for its respective users - a playful loft for the twins, a glamorous walk-in with an ensuite to match for the missus, and a moody jet-black rock-cut skylit shower for the mister.
The structure is left raw like an exoskeleton - the corrugated underdecks painted a cold grey set against dark rafters and beams and exposed tracks to light up the whole space.
A delicate cluster of handmade metal discs light up the double height volume in stark contrast. The entire house is a vibe of its own, only short of its vibrant occupants.
About Balan and Nambisan Architects
An award winning architecture and interior design practice with offices in London and Bangalore. The new London office is led by Nilanjana Roy, one of three partners at BNA. With experience in the US, UK and India, she has returned to the UK with the strategic focus on expanding the studio's expertise to international markets. With her creative flair and rigorous attention to detail she has built up a roster of discerning clients. BNA's UK office offers services in Interior Architecture, Interior Design, FFE and Styling in the residential and hospitality sectors. Our network of skilled artisans along with global sourcing capabilities ensures a client's vision is transformed into reality.
A grand Victorian, locally listed terrace house in a beautiful conservation area of North London served as the canvas for this luxurious Bohemian project. The clients, a judge and her international mediator husband, alongside their two young children, wished for a complete refurbishment of their home whilst respecting and restoring its original period features. The brief specified the need for additional storage alongside designing vibrant, personality-driven spaces throughout the house. The design needed to provide a tasteful and refined backdrop for the owners' beloved objects and artwork, avoiding a formulaic or themed style.
- Dressing Room: A luxurious set of wardrobes providing ample space for clothing and accessories. - Enchanted Garden Bedroom: A sweet, nature-inspired room for the younger daughter, creating a whimsical and serene retreat. - Library in the Clouds Bedroom: A playful and imaginative bedroom for the older daughter, fostering creativity and exploration. - Dramatic Shower Room: A striking and luxurious shower room within the mansard conversion, adding a touch of opulence. - Living Room: A comfortable and intriguing space designed for entertaining, blending cosiness with captivating design elements.
The project brief was to create lots of new space by extending the property with a mansard roof conversion and to design gorgeous personality driven spaces while restoring and respecting the original grand Victorian home.
Many of the original internal features of the home had been lost over time, such as fireplaces, doors, and coving. These elements were carefully reinstated, selecting items that matched the original Victorian design. Any remaining historic features were preserved and restored, including the beautiful original cornicing in the entrance hallway, a stained-glass window overlooking the back garden, and the original room layout and proportions. These meticulous restorations ensured that the historical integrity of the home was respected.
The interior design embraced a luxurious Bohemian style, featuring a bold and rich palette of greens, pinks, dramatic marbles, and pale natural oak chevron parquet floors. Key pieces of existing artwork, personal objects, and furniture were sensitively incorporated into the new design, ensuring that the style was not formulaic but personal and reflective of the clients' unique taste. This approach created a home that feels both curated and lived-in, with each space telling a part of the family's story.
To accommodate their young family, additional space was created by converting the attic into a habitable area and extending it with a dormer mansard extension. This transformation provided a beautiful new bedroom, a shower room, and a large laundry cupboard. The traditionally detailed timber staircase was extended to the converted loft space, enhanced by a large new roof light that flooded the stairs with natural light.
The new loft bedroom was inspired by the avid reading habits of the clients' 8-year-old daughter. Designed to resemble a library that can be slept in, the room features a hanging chair and a large window bench seat, providing comfortable reading spots with views over the London rooftops and gardens. This design fulfilled the playful and functional requirements of the brief, creating a space where imagination and relaxation coexist.
For their nature-loving younger daughter's bedroom, we created an 'Enchanted Forest.' This whimsical space features a large mural-style wallpaper of a peacock in a tree and golden bee handles on the wardrobe. The room's design is both enchanting and functional, providing a magical retreat for a young child.
To meet the clients' need for ample storage, a huge new wall of full-height wardrobes was installed in the master bedroom. These wardrobes were meticulously designed with drawers, shelves, and hanging space to accommodate the couple's extensive clothes and shoe collection.
In the new shower room, we used a dramatic palette of dark green marble, brass, and terrazzo to create a small but perfectly formed luxurious retreat.
Sustainability and energy efficiency were key drivers of the scheme which we took seriously. The new roof used two types of high-performance insulation, ensuring excellent heat retention and low heating requirements. Double-glazed sash windows and roof lights enhanced thermal efficiency, making the loft bedroom both comfortable and energy-efficient. Existing damaged items in the house, such as floorboards, were donated to timber merchants for reuse, minimising waste and adhering to sustainable practices. The structural scheme was designed to minimise steel usage using a mainly timber frame construction, thereby reducing the carbon footprint of the renovation.
About Nancy Gouldstone Architects
Nancy Gouldstone Architects are a London based Architecture, interior design and garden design practice that offer local and international services. We are passionate about creating and delivering exceptionally beautiful homes and gardens for our clients. We plan and manage the whole process from start to finish, offering a full set of services for luxury architecture, interior design, garden design and project management; freeing up our clients time and ensuring their projects are beautifully executed and run smoothly, on time and in budget.
Supremati was commissioned to reimagine HD Cutz, led by premiere hairstylist Sheldon Edwards, to reflect the brand's aspirations and cater to their VIP clientele. The space was designed with a luxurious, bold, elegant, and futuristic scheme, quickly becoming London's hidden gem. It offers a truly exclusive experience to some of the most well-known sportspeople and celebrities.
The project met the brief with a thoroughly developed layout that provides ample working stations for the barber shop, academy, and VIP room. We maximised the space by using a light colour scheme with Bauwerk-painted walls and ceiling, large format porcelain tiles, and tall mirrors to reflect the space. The visually striking ceiling, created with LED lighting, enhances the ambiance, complemented by concealed skirting LED lights and vertical and horizontal LED lighting on the walls for a bolder look.
Adding black MDF frames for mirrors, drawers, barber chairs, and the reception wall and ceiling created a striking contrast that brings masculinity to the design. American walnut slat wood panelling on the back wall adds warmth to the monochromatic scheme and reflects the enduring trend of using timber slat panelling in interiors. Large TV screens and an LED ceiling add an edgy, futuristic feel that was very important to our client.
A key aspect of the layout was positioning the reception desk in the centre to divide the busy part of the shop from the more relaxed academy and VIP area. Black steel on the reception wall and ceiling separates these two spaces, while a mirror-clad coat storage in front of the reception desk enlarges the space and adds practicality for clients. The VIP room, placed directly in front of the entrance and covered in American walnut panels, offers a truly luxurious experience for the well-known sportspeople who regard HD Cutz as their most reliable barber shop in the world.
About Supremati
Supremati is an interior design studio dedicated exclusively to transforming living spaces into luxury, bespoke homes. Drawing on insider knowledge of the property market with an international sensibility for art & interiors, Supremati transforms complex spaces into functional luxury homes.
The magnificent Grade-2 listed Georgian Cuckney House on the Welbeck Estate, one of the UK’s largest and historically important country estates, has been given a complete interior makeover by Rachel McLane Ltd.
The three-and-a-half-year project converted the vacant Cuckney House into luxury 15-bedroom holiday and event accommodation.
The 15,000-acre Welbeck Estate on the Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire border near Sherwood Forest has a history that can be traced back nearly 900 years and is run by The Welbeck Estates Company.
As the most prominent House on the Estate, it has been thoroughly but sensitively transformed during the £5m redevelopment project to provide a single high-spec property for extended holiday and event-related stays.
Its 15 bedrooms include family suites and a bridal suite, allowing the House to sleep more than 30 people, and it has three reception rooms, including a 28-seat dining room and a 40-seat function room. There is a large, well-appointed kitchen, games room, snug butler’s pantry, and outside, there is a large terrace with two BBQs and a wood-fired pizza oven, a walled kitchen garden and a tennis court.
The transformation of Cuckney House is part of the long-term Welbeck Project to re-purpose and breathe new life into the Estate’s collection of historic buildings.
The entire project was managed by the Welbeck Estate, which made it run like clockwork as the Estate has incredibly skilled teams across different departments, including stone masons and builders, some of whom lived on-site to see the project completed.
Working closely alongside the Estate team, we managed through internal and external structural design changes that included a reconfiguration of the walls on the first and second floors, complete re-roofing, insulation throughout, refurbishment of all flooring, including reinstated parquet flooring, and the raising of the ceiling height in the top floor rooms, as well as electrical drawings, lighting designs, colour scheme and fabrics.
We could respect Cuckney House’s listed status while giving each room its identity and personality, reflecting the original use of the building as a Manor House.
The design intent was to make Cuckney House feel like it had evolved rather than an overly designed modern interior. The overall look is eclectic and traditional, with a contemporary twist suited to today’s living expectations.
The interior design also features a new art collection that the Rachel McLane team procured to make it look like the collection had evolved. We worked with the Estate’s collections team on scans of artwork from the collections and also with a commercial art gallery, mixing traditional and contemporary artwork on the walls and around the rooms.
An added feel of the area’s landscape also comes from the work of a ceramic artist who rents a studio from the Welbeck Estate and whose work is on display in the House.
The restoration of Cuckney House has also been emphatically sustainable with the provision of electric car charging points, renewable energy heat sources, and solar panels. In place of energy-consuming kettles in each room, each floor was designed with a communal coffee and tea pod.
Nigel Porter, Property & Rural Estates Director, said, “For me, the interior design and the quality of the craftsmanship stand out.”
About Rachel McLane Limited
Rachel McLane Ltd offers a full design service that interprets a client’s brief and delivers their project on time, on budget, and as envisaged. Every client and every project is different, so how we get there is entirely up to the client. Not every project requires internal spaces reconfiguring; not every client has an architect or project manager. However, as a general rule, their project process offers: Feasibility Study – narrowing down your options; Concept Design – sketched visuals of how your space might look; Design Detailing – producing drawings & plans for trades; Purchasing – new, bespoke or repurposed; Fit-Out.
Nestled in the idyllic countryside of Buckinghamshire, Amersham Interiors has established a reputation for creating timeless, bespoke interiors that capture the unique essence of each client's vision. Recently, our team had the privilege of transforming a house into a charming, functional family home, perfectly blending cottage style with modern comfort. The result is a testament to our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and personalised design.
Our clients, a lovely family seeking a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, envisioned a cottage-style home that exuded warmth and tradition without being overly fussy. They desired a space where every member of the family could feel comfortable. Additionally, they loved the idea of incorporating colour into their home, but they preferred shades that were soothing and subtle rather than bold and overpowering.
From the outset, our approach was deeply collaborative. We believe that the best designs emerge from understanding and embracing our clients' lifestyles, tastes, and needs. We began by sitting down with the family to discuss their vision, preferences, and practical requirements. This initial consultation was crucial in helping us grasp the essence of what they wanted to achieve.
The family’s love for colour was a central theme, but they were clear about their preference for softer tones. Together, we explored a palette that included muted blues, gentle greens, and warm neutrals. These hues provided the perfect backdrop for creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
One of the most enjoyable parts of the process was selecting fabrics and colours that would bring the family's vision to life. We sourced an array of beautiful, high-quality fabrics that complemented the chosen colour palette. The goal was to find materials that not only looked stunning but also felt comfortable and durable for everyday family life.
For the living room, we chose a combination of soft, textured fabrics in light greens and neutrals, adding depth and interest without overwhelming the space. The curtains, made from a gorgeous linen blend form Linwood fabrics, framed the windows beautifully, allowing natural light to filter through and enhance the room’s airy feel.
In the kitchen, we incorporated vibrant green bespoke joinery, antique lighting, and a reclaimed tile floor. Warmth was introduced with a tartan wool Roman blind made from Moon fabric.
One of the key challenges – and joys – of this project was working within the framework of the home’s existing architectural features. The house had beautiful, traditional elements that we wanted to highlight and preserve. Arched architectural features, original fireplaces, and charming nooks were all integrated into the design, adding to the cottage-style aesthetic.
We carefully chose furnishings and accessories that complemented these features rather than competing with them. Vintage-inspired pieces, combined with contemporary touches, created a balanced look that respected the home's heritage while providing modern comforts.
A crucial aspect of any interior design project is balancing style with budget. Our goal was to deliver a beautiful and functional space without exceeding the family’s financial considerations. To achieve this, we focused on investing in key pieces that would make the most significant impact while finding cost effective solutions for other elements.
For instance, we splurged on high-quality upholstery for the main living areas, knowing these pieces would see the most use and needed to be both durable and stylish. In contrast, we sourced more affordable yet aesthetically pleasing accessories and decor items to complement the overall design. We also upholstered antique pieces of furniture passed down to the family rather than buying new - these added character and charm to the home.
The outcome of this collaborative journey is a home that truly reflects the family's desires and needs. Each room exudes a sense of warmth and comfort, with the perfect blend of traditional cottage charm and modern functionality. The chosen colour palette creates a serene and cohesive atmosphere, inviting the family to relax and enjoy their surroundings.
The living areas are spacious yet cosy, ideal for both family gatherings and quiet evenings. The kitchen, a hub of activity, is designed for practicality without sacrificing style, featuring ample storage, efficient workspaces, and charming details that tie the room together.
The use of colour and texture throughout the home ensures a visually appealing environment that feels harmonious and well-considered.
This project underscores the core values of Amersham Interiors: personalised service, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating spaces that our clients love. Our expertise in selecting the best fabrics, colours, and furnishings, combined with our respect for architectural features and budget considerations, allows us to deliver exceptional results.
We believe that every home should be a sanctuary that reflects the unique tastes and lifestyles of its inhabitants. Our collaborative approach ensures that our designs are not only beautiful but also functional and enduring.
Transforming this house into a beautiful family home has been a rewarding experience for the Amersham Interiors team. By combining our design expertise with the family's vision, we created a space that is both stunning and practical. This project serves as a shining example of how thoughtful, personalised interior design can elevate a home, providing comfort, style, and functionality for years to come.
About Amersham Interiors
Amersham Interiors, established in 1984, specialises in bespoke curtains, blinds, and upholstery, providing luxury personalised interior design services. With decades of experience, our team is dedicated to transforming your space into a haven of comfort and elegance. We take pride in our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality, ensuring that every piece we create is tailored to your specific tastes and needs. From initial consultation to final installation, we work closely with our clients to bring their vision to life, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
A Brasserie-Style restaurant converted from the 19th-century Grade II-listed former Minster School, the design respects and enhances the old Music school building, doing justice to its historical importance. Simple colours, furniture, and pared-back materials allow the building to stand in its own integrity.
Rachel McLane Ltd wanted to retain the school's tradition of being a “coming together space.” We kept the integrity of the school lunch/music hall, once the main assembly area, as one big dining space.
Within the limitations of a Grade II listed building, adaptations were made to meet building control and fire regulations, such as installing a lift, new WCs, and air conditioning. Provisions for accessibility were also made by dropping the floor, removing the steps at the entrance, and installing sandstone ramps. All this required a balancing act involving all parties, including the Minster itself.
Our commitment to sustainability is evident in our approach to materials. Wherever possible, we reused existing materials, lifting and relaying stone flags. Stone lintels and mullions were restored, and timber trusses were sandblasted to remove layers of old paint. This preserves the building's original character and reduces our environmental footprint, a testament to our commitment to sustainability.
All materials used were sympathetic and in tune with the Minster, including wood that is medium to dark oak, antique brushed brass, and furniture that marries a style that is relaxed and eclectically functional.
The simple colour palette allows the building to have its own voice. Muted tones on walls are broken by panelling – some existing and some new. Some of the old scholarship boards are re-hung in situ as a nod to the building’s past.
We created bespoke chandelier lighting from printed manuscripts from the Mister Chorister archives. We printed these onto cotton parchment to make shades and as details on the fixed seating screens. We littered the walls with an eclectic mix of musical instruments. We created a gantry that hung over the central detain section with props from typical school subjects such as globes, rugby boots, chemistry apparatus and so on. We also designed a bespoke piece of back lit wall art made up of the iconic yellow and black HB pencils.
The WCs are individually designed and quirky with a school-related vibe - reflecting, perhaps, the habits of pupil’s past, escaping to the WC instead to avoid maths!
An old pulpit was repurposed as a meet-and-greet station/reception, setting a monastic, scholarly feel for arriving guests.
A dropped ceiling detail conceals mechanical/electrical services and air conditioning. The double-height front windows are single-glazed – counteracted with mechanical heating rather than double-glazing the windows.
As regulations require, fire doors are compartmentalised as sympathetically as possible throughout the interior and made to look like they had always been there.
We acquired old-school subject artefacts that are displayed in the gantry above the banquette seating, a nod to the building's school heritage. We also used copies from original manuscripts associated with the Minster and its choristers, which we printed onto canvas and parchment and incorporated into bespoke chandeliers and screens.
York Minster Refectory is the first listed building in York to have solar. The installation of solar slates on the roof is forecast to produce 11,000 kWh of power annually on average. The energy accumulated from the solar slates feeds into the invertors, which subsequently feed the hot water supplies to the washroom facilities.
An ASHP (Air source heat pump) on the plant deck serves power to the building and underfloor heating system to the entrance lobby.
The front entrance of the York Minster Refectory was designed with a simple, flexible, and easy-to-use takeaway kiosk. The Refectory offers takeaway drinks, cakes, and snacks during the day and is also used for finer evening dining.
The upper floor, which was the school's old science labs, IT suite & geography room, was reconfigured to accommodate accessible WCs with lift and a more open plan, lounge-type hub and meeting area, with mixed seating and tables and spaces for private dining and smaller functions, such as weddings.
York Minster Refectory was opened by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in April, which was kept secret until just before the restaurant opened.
We didn't know until late in the development cycle that there would be a Royal opening, and it meant we had to bring forward and adapt a lot of the project schedules across all aspects of the design work, including signing off concepts, procurement and sub-contracted items.
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