Capital pub benefits from refurbishment
• The refurb was aimed at broadening the appeal of the outlet and emphasising live music. [/caption]A RECENT refurbishment project on Edinburgh’s Clerk Street has resulted in the creation of a new live music bar.
The £155,000 project, a joint initiative between Star Pubs & Bars and Edinburgh operator I@G Events, saw the former William McEwans Alehouse transformed into live music venue McSorleys.
The three and a half week project involved reducing the bar servery, creating a new mixed drinking and eating seating area as well as a standing area for younger customers.
The look of the new venue was designed to highlight the bar’s original features, exposing brick walls to create a more relaxed feel and incorporating reclaimed timber flooring.
The bar counter has been given a distressed look and paired with an industrial-style back-bar.
The kitchen was also upgraded as well as the ladies and gents toilets, and the bar’s exterior was given a refresh with new signage and decoration.
Star Pubs and I@G are said to have invested in McSorleys in order to “broaden the pub’s appeal, turning it into a mainstream town bar with a reputation for live music”, according to a statement from the pub company.
Iain Pert of I@G Events said the firm is “absolutely delighted with the design”.
“The look and feel was what was needed for this area to attract a cross section of clientele,” said Pert.
“It’s been a resounding success with food being an important part of the new offer.
“We were involved in the refurbishment from the very start and liked the fact that Star Pubs & Bars were willing to work together with us and invest in turning the pub around and making it the great success it has proved to be.”
Following the refurbishment McSorleys now hosts live music seven nights a week, including singer songwriter sessions.
