Merchants of Fine Times - Morning, Noon and Night
A hidden gem tucked away on a quaint street, one of Chesters best kept secrets.
THE BRIEF
Duttons has a stamp on the city and this was key within what was an evolving brief.
Fusion by Design were briefed to create an all day café bar experience to what was once a former wine merchants, therefore the French inspired bistro feel was perfect – traditional with chic, modern details.
It was essential to maintain the café bar operation but also cater for a new customer base which needed to include younger groups of drinkers whilst not alienating the important broad range of adult drinkers within the city, implementing the JW Lees ethos to provide a comfortable, quality, people focused spaces.
THE DESIGN
The design reflects the original café bar concept but with a fresh take and, although not intentional, it takes on a somewhat continental vibe with bistro styling achieved with a combination of traditional and contemporary elements and the light/dark colour pallete. The bespoke mosaic bar floor is a focal point of the space, adorned by feature antique mirrors, striking yet subtle wallpaper and an LED light ceiling grid festooned with botanical greenery. We love how the tile clad columns, rattan elements and cute café curtain screens have come together to create an interior gem.
The ambiance created by the clever use of lighting and mixture of finishes has allowed the space to feel open and welcoming during the daytime so customers can enjoy an early morning coffee, a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea. On an evening the lights are dimmed and the darker aspects of the scheme come into play, the black painted paneling, the sumptuous green leathers and tonal, warming timbers – all allowing for that more intimate experience to enjoy drinks with friends around the bar or tucked away in a semi private booth.
The Garden Room is a multi functional space for all day use but has the ability to partition off for private use providing a new offer for the customer and alternative revenue for the client.
