Project Overview
Location: Styal, Cheshire
Project type: Full internal and external refurbishment
Building: Grade II listed 17th century public house in green belt location
Challenge/Brief
The client required a comprehensive refurbishment of a dilapidated historic pub that would respect its Grade II listed status and 17th century heritage whilst creating a contemporary hospitality venue. The challenge was to balance conservation requirements with the need to modernise facilities and maximise commercial viability within the constraints of a heritage building in a sensitive green belt location.
Solution
MGI developed a heritage-sensitive design approach that preserved the building’s historic character whilst introducing carefully selected contemporary elements. The strategy focused on restoration of original features combined with sympathetic additions that would enhance both the venue’s appeal and operational efficiency. Key to the solution was relocating facilities to optimise the ground floor trading space.
Implementation
The refurbishment programme included comprehensive restoration of historic floor and wall finishes, ensuring original features were preserved and enhanced. New toilet facilities were created on the first floor, freeing up valuable ground floor space for customer use. An external terrace was constructed featuring a glazed pergola structure, extending the venue’s capacity whilst maintaining visual harmony with the historic building. Interior finishes emphasised authentic materials including reclaimed fixtures and timber, antique furniture, handmade terracotta tiling, and solid timber flooring.
Results
The transformation created a warm and inviting atmosphere that successfully balances heritage authenticity with contemporary comfort, described as offering customers a “true home from home” experience. The project’s exceptional quality was recognised through shortlisting for the Great British Pub Awards, demonstrating the successful integration of conservation principles with commercial hospitality requirements. The refurbishment maximised trading capacity whilst preserving the venue’s historic significance for future generations.