The Regency Club Restaurant, London
12 Aug 2025
Tom Browns Restaurant, Nottinghamshire
16 Jul 2025
By
TheContractCrew
The Background
Contract Furniture Group recently had the pleasure of contributing to the dramatic transformation of Tom Browns, a much-loved restaurant in Nottingham with a rich history and a stunning riverside location in Gunthorpe. First opening its doors in 1986, Tom Browns has been a staple of the local dining scene for nearly four decades. In 2022, the venue was acquired by the Reddington Pub Company, a dynamic operator known for its strong portfolio of hospitality venues across the region, including the neighbouring Anchor pub—a family-friendly spot that contrasts beautifully with Tom Browns’ new adult-only, luxury offering.
The Task
Following a £1 million investment, which the team set out to transform the space into a high-end restaurant with a luxury, grown-up atmosphere, offering top-tier seafood and steak, alongside a live music experience. Having previously partnered with the Reddington Pub Company, we were once again brought on board to bring their latest vision to life — a project that demanded both design flair and technical precision.
Working closely with the interior designer, we were tasked with conceptualising, manufacturing, and installing a collection of bespoke fixed seating that would define the new interior. The venue features a central live music stage, so the layout of the booth seating was planned meticulously to offer all guests a view of the performance, while also creating an intimate, lounge-like environment that suits the luxury music-dining hybrid concept.
The Work
We began with detailed site measurements and then produced both 2D and 3D renderings to help visualise the banquette seating. Our team offered advice on layout, materials, and finishes to ensure every element served the dual purpose of style and functionality. The design theme leaned into a luxe 1970s aesthetic, with a dark and moody palette. The bespoke booths were upholstered in a rich chocolate brown velvet, accented by baroque oak panelling and a gold kickboard that added a glamorous edge. Each booth also features integrated back panel lighting, enhancing the ambiance in this low-lit venue and creating the perfect setting for evening dining and entertainment.
The fixed seating took centre stage throughout the venue, with a mix of corner booths, curved styles, and straight runs to maximise both seating capacity and aesthetic cohesion. With most of the venue dedicated to fixed seating, only a handful of standalone tables and chairs were used, allowing for better space optimisation and more defined zones.
To complement the seating, we supplied high-quality black quartz tabletops paired with our own range of design-led table bases, including models from our Titan, Atlas, and Zeus collections. These matte finish bases are available with interchangeable sleeves, giving each piece a distinct character while maintaining a consistent visual style throughout the space. All tables were assembled on site by our team to ensure a seamless fit and finish.
Additional design details included the installation of custom glass mirrors behind two elevated curved booths, adding depth and a sophisticated edge to the space while further echoing the glamorous 70s vibe that inspired the design.
The Result
The end result is a complete transformation of the former pub into a high-end, child free restaurant that feels both luxurious and welcoming. The combination of bespoke fixed seating, premium materials, and thoughtful spatial planning has not only enhanced the visual appeal, but also increased the venue’s capacity and functionality.
The new Tom Browns has quickly re-established itself as a local favourite, now offering an high end dining experience that matches its stunning riverside location. For restaurant owners and commercial designers alike, it’s a standout example of how bespoke furniture and expert layout planning can redefine a venue and elevate the customer experience.