"Our vision was to create a country theme whilst also retaining the traditional elements that lends itself to creating a cosy and intimate setting."
Managing Director Lee Birchall
Managing Director of the design firm Lee Birchall and his team were appointed by EI Group plc, the largest pub company in the UK, to transform The Victoria Walshaw, located in the rural setting of Walshaw Village, Bury.
The project included full refurbishment to the ground floor spanning 236 sq. metres including both the restaurant and bar areas.
Lee said: “DV8 Designs was approached to transform the eatery into a contemporary country venue with a rural feel. Paying homage to the original, traditional elements of the pub, we opted for a rustic feel with a 21st century twist that would appeal to both new and existing clientele with a real focus on capturing a sense of community.
“The Victoria is also a guest house and with this in mind, we created a design with an intimate feel with the use of worn leathers, tartans and textures running throughout the venue to soften the whole aesthetic for a welcoming community vibe. Alongside the use of bold wallpaper and rustic decorative lighting, the concept was brought to life. Within the restaurant area we opted for softer pastel tones such as cream, olive and pink to soften and brighten up the dining space, creating a relaxed haven for guests to unwind and enjoy. In contrast, the bar area boasts richer, darker tones of blues and greens to add an element of cosiness and warmth to the space.”
Established in 2006, Cheshire based DV8 Designs is an architecture and interior design practice that prides itself on its thorough approach, innovative ideas and client portfolio that comprises several impressive projects with clients in hospitality, commercial, property and residential sectors to name a few.
Lee added: “We are delighted to have worked with the team at The Victoria pub and EI Group plc who trusted our vision, giving us the freedom to use our creativity to produce a truly unique and special venue. Our vision was to create a country theme whilst also retaining the traditional elements that lends itself to creating a cosy and intimate setting, prefect for a catch up with friends or a pub lunch with family, and The Victoria offers just that.”
To maximise space within The Victoria, DV8 Designs worked alongside contractors WHB Construction to create a new flow to the pub to guarantee functionality as well as great visual design. With busy trading periods in mind, Lee and his team extended the fixed seating within the bar area to encourage guests to sit and relax. To achieve a sense of space and openness, akin to the pub’s community ethos, a knock-through was created to join the bar to the restaurant area creating a free-flowing space.
Managing Director of The Victoria Walshaw Richard Moore said: “We are incredibly pleased to say that business has been booming here at The Victoria since the refurbishment was completed. It has been a real pleasure to work alongside Lee and his team, who were able to take our brief and create something modern yet cosy, in keeping with the building. Customers are also enjoying the newly renovated venue, which provides a space for guests to make themselves at home with family and friends. We very much look forward to showcasing the space to new and existing clientele throughout the year.”
For more information about DV8 Designs visit www.dv8-designs.co.uk
