Revolution, Exeter
"it's loud, proud, and full of positive energy" This new site for the Revolution brand was designed to bring young people together for uplifting, in real life experiences. Encompassing three bars with restaurant spaces and WCs, the site unfolds across a meandering four floors as guests are lead on a journey through the buildings, with each new space providing a unique yet connected experience. Configuring the layout was a complex challenge, an amalgamation of 3 Grade II listed buildings, formerly a restaurant and office spaces, complete with a first floor clubroom with single glazed sash-windows. The internal demolition process revealed plenty of quirky historic features requiring many adaptations and interventions to the design on a regular basis through the Design Management service. Working with building control, structural engineers, heritage officers, project management and contractors I sought to minimise the impact whilst maintaining the integrity of the approved vision. The Concept Design was informed by the constraints and the clients vision for layout zoning. The design responds sensitively to the historic building fabric, whilst utilising the budget available to create a range of distinctive and memorable brand experiences fitting of the young & rebellious brand. Combining the features and character of each individual building with a warm palette of metallics, brickwork, cork and plush velvets creates a inviting elevated feel, juxtaposed by contemporary artwork, graffiti, murals and LED signage features for guest engagement and brand attitude. I took a "Kinsugi" approach to show the layers and story of the building through time, choosing repair rather than replacement where appropriate. I also endeavoured to re-use and enhance as much as possible from the inherited site without compromising efficient operation, such as repurposing bar countertops and timber wall cladding, reupholstered banquette seating, flooring, guarding, as well as re-purposing tables and light fittings held in storage from the clients previous sites. Even the infamous wooden Vodka Revs shot sticks were repurposed as chandelier light fittings to add personality to functional staircase spaces.
