THE FARMHOUSE, MACKWORTH

The Farmhouse was a large country pub, hotel and wedding venue near The Peak District National Park. It was typical of the area, with a number of small rooms crammed with furniture and a reputation as ‘quite a nice pub’, it was very popular with guests attending funerals at the nearby cemetery. The rooms were tired and dated and, given its location, the overall performance of the business was far below it’s potential.

The brief was extensive and a radical scheme was proposed involving a creative interior design concept encompassing the entire site.

The client required a thoroughly modern and boutique style venue designed to appeal to professionals, families and tourists alike. The refurbishment would involve extensive structural work to create a large, flowing space with views through the building to the garden and picturesque surroundings. In addition to this the rooms would be completely refurbished to modern boutique standards.

This innovative programme of change was to be delivered in a limited time frame and management of the build was crucial to ensure that the pub and venue were ready for the busy tourist and wedding seasons.

The imposing entrance, flanked by chic patios, gives this traditional farmhouse a handsome modern face. Once a small pub area, a large central bar now dominates the main room with feature wall cladding and tiling creating an atmospheric drinking space. This is complemented by a large fixed poseur table and luxuriously upholstered leather chairs, surrounded with an eclectic mix of upcycled furniture and feature wall decorations.

Views through the sliding glass doors lead to the welcoming restaurant area complete with glaze tiled pizza oven and craft style bar. Upholstered booths provide a subtle yet colourful focus whilst the loose seating pops with vibrant tones. A feature central fireplace acts as a gateway to the conservatory and

large raised decked area with feature timber balustrade, bench seating, large deep cushioned chairs and casual dining areas.

In addition to the main bar and restaurant a more traditional breakfast room and private dining space doubles as a venue for small groups and meetings.

The Folly is a stand-alone function and wedding venue adjacent to the pub, light and spacious it’s neutral tones but decorative style makes it popular for weddings and large meetings. A discrete private garden with feature fire pit connects The Folly with the countryside beyond.

The ten bedrooms, including a bridal suite, treat guests to modern twist on a classic English country house aesthetic with all mod cons added for comfort.

Boating king size beds, feature clad walls and distinctive decorative wallpaper, the rooms are finished with leather sofas and individually styled fittings. The traditionally tiled en-suite bathrooms and charming vintage baths complete the luxurious experience of a night at The Farmhouse.

Photo's by Ben Carpenter Photography