Project Overview
Location: Listed building basement, central Edinburgh
Project Type: Interior refurbishment and redesign
Scope: Complete interior update including new DJ booth installation
Challenge
Tonic faced a significant challenge with its tired and dated interior décor that failed to match the quality and sophistication of its cocktail offering. The basement location in a historic listed building presented both constraints and opportunities, whilst the client sought to enhance the venue’s appeal as a music-focused night destination requiring a purpose-built DJ booth.
Solution
MGI’s approach centred on celebrating the venue’s unique heritage whilst creating a contemporary industrial aesthetic. The design strategy involved stripping back existing internal cladding to reveal the building’s original architectural features, then layering modern industrial elements to create a sophisticated yet edgy atmosphere befitting a premium cocktail destination.
Implementation
The refurbishment began with careful removal of existing cladding, uncovering beautiful natural stone wall features that became the project’s focal point. Industrial-style cage wire bar displays were installed alongside strategic feature lighting to enhance the raw aesthetic. Low-level amber lighting was positioned throughout to create intimate spaces, whilst copper table tops were selected to reflect the warm glow and balance the neutral colour palette of natural stone, white painted brick and tiles.
Results
The transformation successfully repositioned Tonic as Edinburgh’s premier cocktail venue. The thoughtful blend of historic architectural features with contemporary industrial design created a unique atmosphere that elevated the customer experience to match the quality of the cocktails served. The new DJ booth enhanced the venue’s evening entertainment offering, whilst the intimate lighting scheme encouraged longer visits and increased customer satisfaction.