The Prince of Wales

Giving a new lease of life to one of Guernsey’s most iconic hospitality venues. Although protected, the building had undergone various reconfigurations over the past 25 years and much of the historical character of the interior had already been lost. It had become a dark, damp and generally unwelcoming venue, and required significant upgrading to bring it up to modern standards. DLM’s brief was to deliver a warm and vibrant interior, with improved natural light and a visual connection to the street to attract a diverse clientele throughout the day. During the early design phase various colour palettes were developed, introducing the client’s desire for pink. A naturally pigmented clay plaster has been used throughout, in contrast to dark glazed ceramic tiles and textured fabrics, with highlights of white composite stone and brass work. A custom pink and teal terrazzo was also produced to define the lobby and restrooms, with softer lime washed timber tones to the bar areas. The ground floor and basement level were reconfigured, creating a flexible space that offers a welcoming breakfast café, a lunchtime tapas spot and an evening wine bar. Relocating the staircase and forming a double-height void offers customers a direct link between floors and floods natural light from the large existing windows into the lower subterranean level. This improved vertical connection results in a flexible environment where food and beverages can be served on both levels, allowing collective or independent operation of each bar. The restroom facilities and service areas were arranged to include a hidden cellar, integrated storage and to conceal all mechanical and electrical installations from the main bar areas. Recognizing the limitations in achieving full ambulant disabled accessibility from street level, efforts have been made to enhance accessibility where possible, contributing to an inclusive and welcoming environment. Our design and the subsequent works have breathed new life into a beloved venue and created a unique setting for eating, drinking and socialising.