THE HUNTSMAN, BROCKENHURST

What once was the Rose & Crown, a traditional country pub with a stuck-in-the-1960s vibe, is now a stunning "pub with rooms" to both the local community and any a discerning traveler looking for the perfect boutique bolthole to escape to.

Concorde BGW were briefed to fully re-furbish this dated, listed building giving it a new lease of life and a contemporary impression that would equally attract locals, tourists and students.

Through an inventive use of copper piping, reclaimed timber paneling, corrugated iron and statement bare filament bulbs we added an industrial edge to the buildings bar and main dining area. Wanting to still keep a cosy atmosphere we ensured there was a lot of colour throughout the scheme with upholstered, mix-matched furniture, a bespoke hexagonal tiled floor and a stunning pizza oven. The hexagonal theme is reoccurring throughout the scheme also reflected in a custom made log store, feature patterned floor tiles, bar shelving and even the tiling on the pizza oven, enhanced by the use of red grout.

Photo's by Ben Carpenter Photography

"Injecting fun and a cool vibe into a picture-book New Forest village, this revamped inn belies its pub-chain roots...

I arrive to what looks like an average pub from the outside. Inside, though, it’s bright and enticing with décor the right side of trying too hard"

Jane Dunford, The Guardian

The 13 en-suite bedrooms (9 of which are in a converted stable block) have been completely transformed into chic boutique rooms - each individually designed. Key features included colourful wood cladding, bespoke leather headboards, reclaimed mirrors and subtle tones of colour in the soft furnishings. Enhancing the country-vibe, each room is named after a game animal with characterful prints on the wall. Hints of country life are seen throughout the bar and restaurant with tasteful wire sculptures and sign writing adhering to the wildlife that occupies the surrounding New Forest.