Although it’s impossible to be comprehensively for everyone, those were the modest aims. Interpreting that into the built environment initially involved a crude adoption of minimalism, which worked well with a tight budget- with simple linear symmetry and a smart and fuss free fabric.

The site had remained derelict for over a decade, becoming a pretty social ‘anti-social’ hot spot, recognised by the council and police as home to many who weren’t being saved by social housing alone. Clearing needles from the front lobby was the first job on the list.

Dim and with low ceilings, a major cost was to bring in the light and flow of movement from outside by installing wall to wall windows and sliding doors. Access and views to the street were carefully both opened and veiled, with bespoke wire fencing and considered planting, including espaliered fruit trees.

Welcoming pram walkers and morning coffee drinkers following the daily gigs and dancing on tables naturally called for durability and clean surfaces; with the presence of the night before considered throughout the design. To counteract the clean surfaces, discreet DIY sound attenuation was included to prevent the swimming pool effect, as well as heavy curtains and a wealth of wood.

A highly operational five person back bar; a tight but neat, high output kitchen; minimal bathroom space; and quandaries such as ‘floating’ sound engineer station weren’t without their challenges, though all were met through close interaction with the build team, some great collaborations and a good deal of improvised detail.

This was an all encompassing role for Matt, extending way beyond a regular design project - handling everything from conceptual design through to completion through to designing the drinks menu; running heat loss calculations through to establishing the live music offer, playlists and bookings; negotiating planning permissions and licences through to detailing the kitchenware; running tables to sanding bar tops, building furniture, planting gardens and glass clearing, through to hiring the team and managing accounts. A true passion project, now established as one of The West’s celebrated venues and eateries. Little has changed since its inception.