Welcome to our Client Spotlight blog series, where we take a closer look at some of our favourite completed projects.
This month we caught up with twin brothers and chefs behind The Bracebridge, Scott and Steven Lewis.
Faber was appointed by renowned chefs and twin brothers Scott and Steven Lewis, to redesign and relaunch the Sutton Park-based restaurant.
The brothers trained under Michel Roux Jr and worked across many top London restaurants, including Quaglinos, La Tante Claire and the The Halkin Hotel
“It’s always been our dream to return to our home town with a fine dining concept. Sutton Park holds many fond memories for our family, so the opportunity was perfect.” said Scott.
Backed by sister and brother-in-law, Claire and Darron Brough, the family embarked upon transforming the 15th century lodge, located on the picturesque Bracebridge pool, into a friendly and inviting fine-dining concept for all to enjoy.
“It’s always been our dream to return to our home town with a fine dining concept. Sutton Park holds many fond memories for our family, so the opportunity was perfect.”
The Bracebridge (formally The Boathouse) is a landmark destination in Sutton Coldfield and the venue traditionally attracted park visitors during the day. The new owners were keen to retain this casual element alongside their new fine dining concept.
The vision was to create two menus, al-a-carte and bistro, that would share the same principle of quality, fresh ingredients to create fine dishes, whatever time of day.
The brief required a design that could facilitate the two menus and dining styles - they wanted people to feel as at home in their muddy boots, dog in tow, as they did in their evening finery.
Re-configuring the way the venue was used – converting unused outbuildings and extending the terrace area – enabled us to provide two distinct offerings. It’s a perfect mix of fine-dining, within the sumptuous 50 cover restaurant, and a more relaxed, al-fresco experience, on the year-round terrace with seating for up to 150 customers.
It was crucial to capture the essence of the park’s beauty throughout the design. Bringing the outside in was key to the design; taking inspiration for colour palettes and textures from surrounding foliage and vistas to create inspiring and inviting spaces.
Subtle nuances of art deco add an extra dimension of timeless glamour and full height mirrors create a sense of space as well as adding extra views of Bracebridge Pool.
Externally, the view obviously provided the perfect backdrop to The Terrace. The design was purposefully kept simple so not to detract but enhance the natural landscape. Hut-style fixed seating frames carefully selected views over the pool, while rows of picnic style benches sat under retractable canopies are furnished with branded cushions and blankets.
