Refurbishment: Identity transplant
A previously unloved country pub has been transformed into a sumptuous dining venue.
Perfectly positioned overlooking the village green and fountain in Burley In Wharfedale, West Yorkshire, the new owner of the Malt, Adam Lewis, wanted to inspire customers to eat, drink and socialise there once more after "years of neglect".
He called in design and communications agency Logistik to refurbish the entire ground floor and give the pub a fresh identity.
"This pub had a great following from all over Yorkshire, but a continual lack of investment and a frequent change of ownership left customers feeling unhappy," he says.
"I recognised the potential of this beautiful Victorian building and have been working with Logistik to create an environment that has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with lots of ambience and some quirky talking points to bring some life back into the pub and the local area."
In the first phase, Logistik redesigned the interiors of the bar, restaurant, private dining area and entrance, changing the look and feel of the pub completely.
The once cold atmosphere, garish red and yellow colour palette and uninspiring design has been replaced by heritage greens, chocolate browns and deep purples, textured wallpaper, large graphics, Chesterfield sofas, gilded mirrors, rich fabrics and materials and ornate chandeliers, to create a cosier, more atmospheric experience for customers.
The pièce de résistance is a baby grand piano complete with champagne and wine bucket holders.
"We wanted to work with the existing building by using heritage colour palettes, styles and prints," explains Maria Hatton, creative manager from the design and build arm of Logistik.
"The design introduces modern elements that are sympathetic and complementary to the building but add a little charm and wit - something for the customers to explore and talk about.
"We have also used colour to define the venue's different uses, clearly identifying the bar, restaurant and private dining areas."
Logistik will carry out the second phase of the project later this year, refurbishing the function room and installing "boutique suites" which will enable the Malt to offer bed and breakfast.
