Wildlife Trust Cafe
A charity based in a beautiful woodland environment wanted an interior design for a flexible café, community and education space. Or designs for this largely commercial space sought to evoke its nested position within both the community and the surrounding forest, emphasising the extensive views and connection to nature. Drawing inspiration from the woodland we rooted our material selections in it, specifying English woods like oak, beech and ash.
Wide planks of ash flooring create a luxuriant, gallery feel, leading the eye out towards the view. We focussed on placing fixed seating against the far wall, elegant built in leather banquettes help to emphasise the feeling of grandness. Ash and topped tables sit alongside straw arts and crafts style chairs, fusing old and new and offering flexibility to be moved and adapted for differing functions. We designed an ash and foresso reception desk on casters which can be used as a lectern or even an event bar.
Sustainability was key on this project – during the demolition phase much was salvaged for reuse in back of house areas. Where we sourced new wood, cork and veneers, FSC and sustainably sourced wood was sought, and foresso which is a great recycled wood material. We used vintage chairs to avoid buying new, and ecological paints and a cork wall covering were used – the cork also has sound and thermal insulation benefits.
Commercial interior design projects like this are always interesting because they represent an opportunity to help my clients build real, last connections with their customers.
If you have a hospitality business and you’d like to see how I can help shape your space, then get in touch via the form below.
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