... The Art of Heritage Hospitality Design
The UK is renowned for many things – rolling countryside, dramatic coastlines, and of course, the warm welcome of its pubs. But underpinning all of this is a rich architectural heritage. For many international visitors, it’s the historic buildings – castles, coaching inns, manor houses, and old market town pubs – that bring them here in the first place. These structures offer more than shelter or sustenance; they offer a story. And hospitality operators have recognised the value in bringing these stories back to life for many years.
At CIC, we believe that refurbishing heritage properties isn’t just about preserving the past – it’s about extending its future. Many of the UK’s most atmospheric pubs and restaurants are housed in centuries-old buildings. They hold a charm that can’t be fabricated. But with that charm comes responsibility: the need to tread carefully, to respect the architecture, to protect what’s unique while adapting the space for modern use.
We’ve had the privilege of working on numerous listed buildings – each one a piece of living history, each one requiring a tailored approach. In partnership with Oakman Inns, we helped breathe new life into a 14th-century former residential care home, turning it into a light-filled, contemporary bar and restaurant – The Cherry Tree in Olney.
The transformation wasn’t just aesthetic. It involved complex structural work and traditional plastering techniques to restore original cornices, crumbling exterior stonework, and delicate lath and plaster ceilings. The result was a space that felt fresh and usable – yet still deeply rooted in its historic character.
In another collaboration with Oakman Inns, we brought a long-vacant Grade II listed coaching inn back into use. These projects are never straightforward. Every enhancement required careful consideration – not just to gain planning approval, but to honour the building’s legacy. We worked closely with local councils and heritage groups to ensure that changes were sympathetic to the original character. The final design celebrated exposed brick and timber from the 18th century, while weaving in the comfort, functionality, and style expected by today’s guests.
This is the dual role of heritage hospitality design: to elevate the guest experience without erasing the past. It’s a fine balance – and one that demands sensitivity, skill, and a deep understanding of both traditional craft and contemporary design. Any refurbishment of a listed building isn’t just a refresh; it’s a preservation effort. Materials must be carefully chosen, methods adapted, and often, historic construction techniques revived. But when done right, the results are places that feel timeless – authentic, atmospheric, and incredibly appealing to both locals and international visitors alike.
Take our work at The Woburn, another listed property turned vibrant pub and restaurant. Here, the integrity of the original structure was retained, while key updates created a space that feels relevant and welcoming. Projects like this prove that heritage doesn’t have to be static. It can evolve – subtly, respectfully, beautifully.
In a world where many venues are chasing the next big trend, heritage properties remind us that sometimes the strongest asset is already in the walls. At CIC, we’re proud to help uncover, restore, and celebrate these spaces – ensuring that their stories not only endure but continue to be lived in, enjoyed, and shared.
