Project Overview
Client: The Goose
Location: Manchester’s Gay Village
Project Type: Complete bar renovation and structural enhancement
Scope: Full interior and exterior transformation of long-standing community venue
Challenge/Brief
The Goose Bar, a well-loved establishment at the heart of Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ community, required comprehensive renovation to restore it to its former glory. The project presented significant structural challenges that needed addressing before any aesthetic improvements could begin. The venue required:
- Extensive structural strengthening of trade area flooring
- Removal of chimney breasts to maximise trading space
- Complete interior renovation whilst maintaining the bar’s community significance
- Enhanced external presence to attract passing trade
The project also required careful management of party wall negotiations, adding complexity to the structural works phase.
Solution
MGI approached this multifaceted project by addressing the fundamental structural requirements first, ensuring a solid foundation for the complete transformation that would follow. Our team recognised the venue’s cultural importance to Manchester’s Gay Village and developed a solution that would enhance its role as a community hub whilst delivering modern hospitality standards.
The comprehensive renovation plan included both extensive behind-the-scenes structural work and highly visible improvements that would reinvigorate the venue’s appeal to both regular patrons and new visitors.
Implementation
The project was delivered in carefully coordinated phases, beginning with essential structural works:
Structural Phase: Floor strengthening in the trade area was completed alongside the removal of chimney breasts, with MGI managing all associated party wall negotiations to ensure smooth project progression.
Interior Transformation: A complete renovation encompassed upgraded bar and back fitting systems, installation of a new DJ booth and modular stage for entertainment, bespoke flooring throughout, comprehensive decorative schemes, and a complex lighting system designed to create atmosphere and enhance the venue’s appeal.
External Enhancement: The transformation extended to external decorations and the installation of new RGB colour-changing signage, creating a striking visual presence that announces the bar’s location to passers-by in this vibrant district.
Results
The extensive renovation has successfully restored The Goose to its rightful position as a cornerstone of Manchester’s Gay Village. The structural improvements have maximised the available trading space, whilst the comprehensive interior and exterior enhancements have created a venue that proudly serves its community.
The combination of behind-the-scenes structural expertise and visible transformation has delivered a space that maintains its cultural significance whilst offering modern hospitality standards. The new RGB signage and external decorations ensure the venue maintains a strong presence in this competitive entertainment district.
MGI’s careful management of complex structural requirements, combined with sensitive renovation that respects the venue’s community importance, has created a space positioned to continue serving Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ community with quality drinks and entertainment for years to come.