Pizza, pie and cider restaurant, The Stable, has arrived in Exeter’s historic Guildhall, with a stylish interior conceived by Bristol-based design firm, Studio B.
This is in fact the tenth interior Studio B has completed for The Stable brand, with whom the firm has been working since 2011.
“As with all Stable builds, we had no set brief, instead a series of site visits to establish the relationship between the building’s past, and what The Stable wanted to create – via both the menu and the overall design,” explains Studio B’s creative director, Kyle Clarke.
“We began this story in the entrance; a huge stairwell entirely clad in locally sourced reclaimed timber. Here we worked with local illustrator Philip Harris to create an incredibly detailed 12ft cow dressed in a policeman’s uniform. The illustration itself reflects the previous uses of the building, a fresh produce market, police station and court house whilst the style continues the theme of intricate and unusual illustrations used in several other Stable restaurants.”
Interior architect, Jess Britten, continues: “Throughout the interior, we created a dark and moody atmosphere, referring back to previous Stable sites for brand consistency. Our approach for the first floor was to appeal to communal diners and drinkers, providing views into the kitchen and a long, prominent bar.
“We paired more reclaimed timber with stunning custom made patina brass fixtures and fittings. Dark tones, dusty emeralds, low beams and soft lighting add to the easy-going atmosphere.”
In order to create a West Country oasis, awash with greener, Studio B worked with botanist, Lucy Drane, and landscape designer, Tim Gamlin, to create a planting scheme through the restaurant’s interior and exterior spaces.
Assorted hanging palms have been installed in the stairwell to dramatic effect, while the potted plants and succulents are dotted throughout.
A second floor bar – adorned with delicate ferns – will serve up The Stable’s first cocktail offering. The lighting here is classic and elegant, and the departure from previously-used timber cladding means that the space exudes warmth and sophistication.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of the property is its impressive roof-top terrace, accessed via the bar. Here, two restored vintage caravans have been craned in to create a unique space for diners amidst an abundance of greenery and flowers.
