BLOK at Lanelay Hall
South Wales
Location
South Wales
Status
Completed 2024
Sector
Hospitality
Client
Lanelay Hall Hotel & Spa
In the transformation of a previously under-utilised restaurant at the luxury boutique hotel and spa, Lanelay Hall, South Wales, we created an exciting new dining destination, BLOK. The reimagined space offers a fine dining experience centred on seasonal British produce, set within a richly textured and visually engaging environment.
The design features an open, theatrical kitchen, a modular central booth area, and a botanical theme with abundant indoor planting, all within a warm, natural palette. The restaurant also includes an exclusive private dining area and two full-height glass showcases for wine and meat aging.
The former restaurant space was tired and lacked intimacy, with a formal atmosphere that didn’t match the hotel’s desired dining experience. and the space’s high ceilings and loose furniture arrangements didn’t enhance the room's beautiful period features, and the cool-toned interior clashed with the listed Georgian oak panelling.
Our brief was to completely transform the 134 sq m restaurant, focusing the new design around a ‘fine dining by fire’ concept. The goal was to create a warm, cozy, and visually captivating environment that would attract both hotel guests and local diners. Additionally, the new private dining area needed to be flexible enough to serve as an overflow space during busy periods.
Two key design elements unlocked the space’s full potential. First, we introduced a central, modular, 16-seater booth that added visual interest and created much-needed intimacy, increasing seating capacity from 48 to 60. Striking sculptural plants separate diners and enhance the atmosphere. Bespoke furniture, crafted by Dawnvale, and contemporary seating further elevate the space.
Second, we added glazed showcases for wine display and a meat-aging fridge in the private dining area, visible from both inside and outside the restaurant, enticing guests with glimpses into the culinary experience. The ‘theatre kitchen’ is framed with new tiling, drawing the eye into the action.
The listed 3m-high Georgian oak paneling presented a significant challenge, as it couldn’t be altered. We embraced this feature, incorporating warm, fiery hues and rich, earthy tones inspired by the new menu, complemented by bold injections of color. Lighting was crucial in creating intimacy, with flexible, chargeable lamps on tables and floor-standing lamps providing additional ambient light.
New herringbone timber LVT flooring was chosen to maintain the heritage feel, while ribbed fabrics in solid colors referenced the Georgian era. Many original wall and ceiling finishes were retained, with updates like repainting the ceiling in warm cream and replacing outdated chandeliers with sophisticated decorative lighting.
We carefully balanced the need for a contemporary, dynamic design with respect for the building’s heritage. Existing period features were enhanced rather than replaced, ensuring the space’s timelessness. New elements, such as tropical-themed wallpaper in an Old English style, were selected to complement the period features while adding a botanical touch.
Durable materials were chosen to ensure longevity, with darker upholstery on booth seating to minimize visible wear and tear, and easily replaceable finishes on loose furniture.
BLOK Restaurant at Lanelay Hall stands as a testament to our thoughtful design approach, seamlessly balancing aesthetics with functionality. The transformation has not only increased seating capacity and introduced versatile dining options but has also honoured the space’s rich heritage.
By aligning with the new ‘fine dining by fire’ concept, we’ve created a space that is both visually striking and highly functional. This project exemplifies our dedication to crafting beautiful, purposeful environments and maintaining outstanding design standards within the hospitality industry.