This traditional pub in Cambridge, featuring a Thai kitchen, underwent a complete transformation following an initial light refurbishment in 2022. We were commissioned to deliver a full design package and project management service, overseeing every stage from the initial build through to final styling. The project required careful planning to enhance the pub’s character while creating a contemporary, inviting environment for both existing patrons and new visitors.
The result is a considered yet striking scheme that elevates the pub’s interior while respecting its traditional charm. Every element was designed to support both functionality and atmosphere, resulting in a venue that feels refreshed, cohesive, and memorable. From circulation and layout to bespoke joinery and finishes, the design ensures that the space works seamlessly for day-to-day operation while delighting customers with a refined, thoughtful interior.
The main challenge at The Anchor was to modernise a traditional pub while maintaining its character and ensuring the space functions effectively for service. The pub required an interior that could cater to loyal regulars while also appealing to new visitors, all within the constraints of an existing building with structural and operational considerations.
Balancing heritage features with modern requirements, including circulation, seating layouts, and a high-functioning Thai kitchen, demanded a careful approach. Every design decision needed to improve both practicality and aesthetic impact, ensuring a seamless transition from the previous refurbishment to a fully realised, upgraded venue.
Our approach combined strategic interior design with full project oversight. We began by assessing the space and understanding the operational needs of the pub, including service flow, kitchen operations, and customer experience. From there, we developed a design concept that maintained the pub’s traditional character while introducing contemporary finishes, materials, and bespoke joinery to elevate the space.
Throughout the build, we coordinated with contractors and trades, ensuring every stage of the refurbishment was delivered on schedule. Finishing touches, including styling and detailing, were carefully curated to create a venue that feels considered, inviting, and entirely transformed.
Full interior design and refurbishment of the pub, including Thai kitchen integration, bespoke joinery and detailing to elevate the space, material and finishes specification balancing traditional and contemporary elements, lighting design to enhance atmosphere and functionality, project coordination overseeing the build and installation process, final styling to create a cohesive, welcoming interior for customers.
The Anchor is an example of how thoughtful interior design and meticulous project management can transform a traditional hospitality space. The result is a venue that is both functional for staff and inviting for patrons, seamlessly blending heritage character with contemporary style.
