Interior Design & Procurement Projects The George Street Bar & Grill

The George Street Bar & Grill formed part of The Roxburghe Hotel in Edinburgh.

Our brief from Paragon Hotels was to refurbish the existing hotel bar and restaurant using its entrances on George Street to form premises which whilst available to hotel guests would also draw in customers from out with the hotel creating a destination independent to the hotel. High-end produce with a Scottish influence formed the backbone of the menu, with a focus on connoisseur whisky in the bar.

Whilst the traditional Scottish influence continued through from the main hotel creating a comfortable relationship between the spaces, an interior design concept with a travel influence was agreed, recognising the huge role of tourism in Edinburgh, the transient nature of local people and cultures in Edinburgh over the centuries in addition to that of the hotel itself.

Both the bar and restaurant were designed in a style which reflected the heritage of the Georgian building in which they sit. Panelled wall detailing, rich dark timbers, leather finishes and brass detailing combine in harmony to create warm, yet elegant interiors. The intimate and cosy bar in dark heritage colours with a bespoke zinc bar top sat adjacent the lighter and brighter restaurant space with full height glazing, perfect for watching the world go by.

With travel, transport, luggage and postcards influencing the scheme, across the furniture detailing, wall-coverings and colour palette, the interiors are both welcoming and relaxing. Careful curation of artwork and accessories combined with contemporary lighting styles and an eclectic mix of furniture pieces enhance an inviting feeling of a space which has evolved over time.

The George Street Bar & Grill interiors are thoughtfully designed to suit the architecture of the building, rich in heritage and history and creating a warm ambience for tourists and locals alike. Although completed on a fairly tight budget, the finished spaces did not feel compromised in terms of quality or finesse. Following the renovation, The George Street Bar & Grill was the winner of the coveted Food & Drink Special Commendation Award at the 2014 Scottish Hotel Awards.

Like the George Street Bar & Grill? See our Kelvin Bar Concept here