Project Overview
Client: The Boat House, Irlam
Location: Irlam, Greater Manchester
Project Type: Complete pub refurbishment and repositioning
Scale: Full interior and exterior renovation with structural modifications
Challenge/Brief
The Boat House had suffered years of neglect under previous management, leaving the property in a deteriorated state that failed to maximise its potential. The new operators required a comprehensive transformation that would elevate the venue from its previous status as a basic community local to a compelling mid-level dining destination, whilst respecting the building’s inherent character and original features.
The client needed to optimise the available trade area through strategic structural alterations and improve the customer journey throughout the site to create a more welcoming and functional hospitality environment.
Solution
MGI developed a comprehensive design proposal that balanced heritage preservation with commercial viability. The approach focused on celebrating and enhancing the building’s existing architectural features whilst implementing strategic improvements to transform the venue’s market positioning.
The design strategy centred on creating a sophisticated dining environment that would appeal to a broader customer base whilst maintaining the venue’s authentic character. This involved careful selection of materials, finishes, and layout configurations that would support the transition from traditional pub to dining destination.
Implementation
The refurbishment encompassed both interior and exterior elements, with structural alterations strategically implemented to maximise the usable trade area. MGI’s team worked to preserve and highlight the building’s original features, integrating them seamlessly with contemporary design elements that supported the new dining concept.
Key aspects of the execution included reconfiguring the internal layout to improve customer flow and create distinct dining zones, whilst exterior improvements enhanced the venue’s kerb appeal and first impressions for arriving guests.
Results
The transformation has delivered exceptional commercial results, far exceeding initial projections. The Boat House now consistently achieves weekly turnover of £30,000, demonstrating the success of the repositioning strategy and design execution.
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the venue’s welcoming atmosphere and successful blend of traditional character with contemporary dining comfort. The project has successfully established The Boat House as a popular destination dining venue whilst maintaining its connection to the local community.
The strong return on investment validates MGI’s approach of combining heritage sensitivity with commercial acumen, creating a sustainable hospitality business that serves both operators and customers effectively.