Spending more on an elevated dining experience isn’t out of the question for the average person, especially when it comes to restaurants that have an appealing social media presence. About half of Brits are willing to shell out more dough in such a situation (around £30 more), research commissioned by Barclaycard Payments reveals. With locations that feature an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, diners can experience much more than what happens to be on the menu. Birmingham specifically features a number of locations that incorporate a unique interior design or theme, from social establishments to coffee shops and immersive hidden gems.
Industrial meets casual at Hockley Social Club
The Hockley Social Club (HSC) is unlike a typical dining experience, primarily due to the fact that the building itself used to be a printing factory. Today, however, the location serves as a unique option for those in search of a place to hangout and enjoy live entertainment. With plenty of events that range from comedy nights to live music performances, the space is also a great place to grab a bite to eat. With an extensive bar menu, an on-site coffee shop by the name of Cafe Artum (which also happens to serve wine), and several food options, there’s no question that diners will have plenty to choose from. To further provide context as to the magnitude of the food, the Digbeth Dining Club (which operates and curates the HSC) website notes that the destination is “Birmingham’s biggest destination for the UK’s best street food.”
In regard to the HSC’s interior design, there are no shortage of features worth noting. The warehouse setting may sound bleak, though the HSC has transformed the space into a unique and attractive hangout location that caters to a casual atmosphere. This includes aesthetic, wooden tables (both typical round tables and chairs in addition to picnic tables), which create inviting seating arrangements. Another unique feature of the location is the outdoor terrace, which facilitates an outdoor dining experience. The warehouse aesthetic further lends to the interior design, with an industrial style that dominates the large space for a rustic and open appeal.
Beyond coffee at Cafephilia
For those in search of a unique cafe experience, Cafephilia is just one Birmingham option out there. Time Out notes that the location features a “slower vibe,” which contrasts with other establishments that prioritise more of a to-go experience. With an extensive menu that ranges from coffee to tea, the cafe also serves typical breakfast options, sandwiches and paninis, and real fruit smoothies (not to mention plenty of dessert options and baked goods, too). Beyond the menu, however, Cafephilia also has plenty to admire when it comes to interior design. In addition to a relaxed atmosphere, the cafe reflects a warm and cosy mood that’s perfect for enjoying coffee and dessert. One of the most distinctive features of the cafe, however, is the art that can be seen hung on the walls, which brings a small gallery-esque aesthetic to the place.
The framed art often found on the walls at Cafephilia can serve as inspiration for other restaurant owners, as it’s the perfect way to complement the interior of any space in a way that is fully customisable. Whether it be pieces from local artists, a few favorite prints that encompass the restaurant’s environment, or self-made creations, a framed look can draw attention to the art itself while creating a cohesive theme. For establishments that aim to showcase modern photos or artwork, custom white frames are key to create a balanced look that accentuates the piece itself. While white frames can draw the eye to photos and artwork when hung against a darker interior design, it can also create an airy and ‘put together’ effect when used against lighter interior styles. especially when the goal is to mimic a gallery layout like those seen at Cafephilia. With the ability to customise the frame by size, restaurant owners can rest assured that any piece will be displayed perfectly.
The Lost & Found — an immersive experience
The Lost & Found is another Birmingham bar and restaurant that is dedicated to a special experience. For starters, the building itself is the National Provincial Bank Building, though you’d never realise it based on the interior design of the establishment, which is often described as “whimsical.” One Time Out review states: “everything in this spot is about capturing your senses, from the canopy of stunning foliage to playful drinks and modern twists on British dishes.”
Located in the West Midlands, The Lost & Found features an immersive interior design that reflects the life of Hettie G. Watson, a fictional Victorian botanist. With nods to botany found throughout the location and a Victorian vibe, the decor paints a beautifully intricate picture of Watson’s life as an explorer. A 2012 Out in Brum review article dives deeper into the interior design of the restaurant, citing details that range from portraits of Hettie herself to high ceilings, just-right lighting, and spacious booths. It’s further noted that the location features a living wall, and “lots of other shrubbery.” With a cosy atmosphere, there’s no question that guests can feel truly immersed into the life of Watson while at The Lost & Found. A 2015 Scout Magazine article features photos that further shine light on the unique details of the restaurant. These include the wallpaper itself to warm wooden accents found in the rustic tables and hints of lush greenery and unique patterned flooring.
The interior design of a restaurant is a key way that establishments can create an elevated experience, whether the goal is to create an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere or fully immerse customers into a fantasy world. When in Birmingham, visitors and locals alike can discover options that include hidden gem coffee shops, social dining spaces, and fantasy inspired establishments.