Armathwaite Hall Cocktail Bar

THE BRIEF

Carolyn and Charles Graves invited us to advise, in competition with others, on the new look of the bar for the old family home, come hotel. The main bar within the recently extended venue was starting to look tired. The hotel, up against the stiff competition, had managed to maintain its high occupancy levels by integrating a successful spa, function room and brasserie to its offering. However, the appeal to the next generation of visitors meant a new approach to the food and beverage rooms within the main body of the hotel. With an air of class and sophistication, the level of service and dining offering was exceptional. The presentation of these services, however rather tired.

THE SOLUTION

We looked to create an escapist, timeless cocktail bar where pre-dinner drinks and afternoon tea could be enjoyed in a sumptuous, opulent environment. Traditional fielded timber panels with original oil paintings of the Lakes, accented with modern crystal chandeliers and an aged brass counter top were strong features of the room. The original peat bog fire surround, filling one wall was brought back into use with a renovated grate and fire back.

Richly upholstered deep buttoned modular seats were placed side by side in the bay window, on wheels to allow them to be moved around – looking out into the gardens or into the room. They could also be moved away from this area together with the petal-shaped European velvet sofas. Giving the room layout great flexibility.

THE RESULTS

Covers are now increased with a raised Champagne booth nestled into the corner of the room, which has a vista across the full room and into the garden through the tall stone bay windows. The traditionally crafted timber bar with aged brass crinkled front and top, matching the integrated brass table lamps, provide both more seating and a view to the large selection of gins, whiskies and Champagnes. An elegant place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.