The Anchor - Custom Bars

Venue Transformation Vision

The Anchor in Gunthorpe offered Urban an exciting opportunity to create a stunning wrap-around double custom bar as part of a venue refurbishment aimed at transforming a traditional pub into a contemporary hospitality destination. This project showcased Urban's expertise in hospitality furniture design and its ability to collaborate with design professionals, contributing valuable insights that enhanced both aesthetics and functionality.

The fit-out project management team, Parc Developments, at The Anchor envisioned a comprehensive transformation to appeal to traditional pub patrons and a new generation of customers seeking high-quality dining and drinking experiences. Central to this vision was the wrap-around bar design, necessitating a partner capable of delivering exceptional craftsmanship while understanding the demands of a busy hospitality environment.

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Design Collaboration and Technical Innovation

In collaboration with People Architecture and Parc Developments, Urban showcased its professional approach to design and commitment to projects developed for developers, rather than simply executing external designs. Urban actively contributed innovative suggestions for efficient manufacturing methods, translating complex 3D renders into practical technical drawings that could be perfectly executed in its workshop.

This collaborative process included multiple design review sessions, allowing Urban's team to analyse the proposed bar configuration for structural integrity, manufacturing efficiency, and operational functionality. Their expertise helped to refine the design, achieving aesthetic goals while addressing practical considerations such as bartender workflow, equipment access, and maintenance requirements.

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Wrap-Around Configuration Challenges

The wrap-around configuration posed unique challenges that demanded sophisticated planning and precise manufacturing to ensure perfect alignment and seamless joints throughout the installation. Urban's advanced CNC machinery was crucial in executing the complex curves and angles required by the design. Each section of the bar had to be manufactured to exacting tolerances to guarantee a flawless installation, as any misalignment would be glaringly apparent in the finished product.

The design process incorporated detailed 3D modelling and template creation, verifying fit and alignment before manufacturing commenced. This meticulous planning phase, underpinned by Urban's experience with similar hospitality projects, ensured that installation proceeded seamlessly, free from delays or complications that could interfere with the venue's opening schedule.

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Premium Oak Construction and Finishes

Urban's bench joinery expertise played a pivotal role in achieving the complex angles and connections necessary for this ambitious design. Skilled bench joiners employed traditional joinery techniques complemented by the precision of modern CNC machinery, resulting in visually seamless and structurally sound joints. Each connection point received meticulous attention to detail to ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting durability under commercial conditions.

The solid oak bar tops were selected for their durability against the demands of commercial use while delivering a warm, natural aesthetic that harmonised with The Anchor's traditional character. Each piece of oak was carefully inspected for grain pattern and quality to guarantee consistency and visual appeal. Precise measurement and cutting were essential to accommodate the bar's complex geometry, minimising waste and enhancing the wood grain's natural beauty.

Finishing the oak tops involved several sanding, sealing, and protective coating stages to ensure longevity in the demanding hospitality environment. The chosen finish is protected against spills, stains, and daily wear, and the natural wood appearance is preserved, which is integral to the design concept.

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Commercial-Grade Materials Selection

Urban's selection of Stippolyte panels indicated their understanding of commercial-grade materials that excel in high-traffic hospitality settings. This material choice reflects the same commitment to durability and easy maintenance that Urban applies in projects like landlord furniture and student accommodation, where longevity is crucial for successful operations.

Specialised handling and installation techniques were necessary for the Stippolyte material to achieve the desired appearance and performance. Urban's familiarity with various commercial materials enabled them to select the appropriate adhesives, fasteners, and installation methods, ensuring sustained performance under typical use conditions.

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Trade Coordination and Installation

The tiled bar front, completed on-site by the team, illustrated Urban's capability to coordinate effectively with other trades. This integration allowed Urban to adapt its processes to incorporate different materials seamlessly, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the venue while ensuring operational efficiency.

Overall, the transformation of The Anchor into a contemporary hospitality destination showcased Urban's skill in design, innovation, and execution. Successful collaboration with design professionals and careful attention to material selection and construction techniques were instrumental in delivering a bar that met and exceeded management's vision. The results reflected a blend of durability, beauty, and functionality, setting a new standard for hospitality design in the region.