The Background

 

The Old Vol has been at the heart of the rural community of Caythorpe for many years. But like many traditional English pubs outside the city centres, it seemed to be stuck in a cycle of new owners and regular reinventions – non notably more successful than the last. Sensing a potential downturn, a local private owner purchased the charming establishment in 2022 with the aim of ensuring its future by creating a great pub serving high quality cuisine in his area.

 

The Old Vol Fluted Fixed Seating

 

The Brief

 

Working with an interior design consultant we were tasked with bringing the new owner’s vision to life. That goal was the creation of a modern eatery balancing a traditional warm & cosy village pub feel with an appropriately sophisticated setting to serve Michelin Starred food. As the venue had recently been refurnished in another style, we had the additional directive to reuse relatively new chair frames to lower cost and increase the sustainability of the project. To facilitate the expected upturn in custom there was a need to make the most of every nook and cranny for diners. Then there was the small detail that all work had to be complete within 5 weeks.

 

The Old Vol Loose Seating

The Work

 

We started by collecting dining & high chairs, as well as high & low stools and bringing them to our UK workshop to reupholster the frames in Panaz Montagu fabric and Iliv Burghley faux leather. At the same time we measured specified spaces for made-to-measure fixed seating. These custom units were finished with fluted back upholstery in Ilev Burleigh faux leather for modern feel, easy maintenance and to maximise use of space.

 

The Old Vol High Chair Seating

The Results

 

The Old Vol is now a comfortable and inviting village pub with a distinctly modern twist. Capacity has been increased by 20% and is still regularly tested with guests booking weeks in advance. This is due not only to the improved layout, complete comfort of our seating and stability of the tables; it is also down to the new team of experienced chefs serving up fantastic food in a lively ambiance. A year on and the venue is just as enticing, so we’re sure Michelin Star won’t be long in the making.