The Bickley Arms, Chislehurst

Following the acquisition of The Bickley Arms in Chislehurst by Youngs & Co, Fusion by Design were asked to redesign the interior and introduce the eclectic elements Youngs are synonymous for.

The design needed to link the multiple levels of the site.  The ground floor bar, mezzanine and lower ground/basement levels are all relatively open and linked by a large staircase, which leads you through the pub into each of the dining areas and through to the extensive beer garden to the rear of the lower ground floor.  The colour scheme was key to the flow of the space and the connection between levels and floors, this was inspired by the nearby Chislehurst Caves with their rust and emerald hues.

The concept was inspired by local history and attractions, with a link to Napoleon III who resided at the nearby Camden Place in Chislehurst.  The design has a slightly regal feel, highlighted by the material selection to the bar areas with painted panel walls with inset floral wallpapers, brass lighting and plush velvet fabrics in rich colours.

The main bar front was modified and adapted, retaining the existing marble top but adding a stained timber front with moulded detail, the backfitting was adapted and new black metal framework with brass mesh inserts was introduced.  The co-ordinating fabrics and wallpaper in the bar area were from House of Hackney.  An eclectic mix of furniture features throughout, and is illuminated by a number of bespoke brass light fittings.  The timber floor was revived with a new timber floor installed on the mezzanine, rugs were added to compliment and soften each area.

The artwork in the bar areas creates a huge impact as you enter the building and this continues throughout the space with a mix of framed prints and portraits adorning the walls and truly linking each area of the space together.

Photography by Cynthia Rezende