Creating atmosphere and ambiance in a listed Georgian building to thrill and entice its clientele needed some innovative and artistic lighting effects backed by the technical mastery of Intecho and ABB.
This was the challenge facing Paul Murphy of Intecho,
“As the main system integrator within the project, we specialise in the design and installation of lighting Controls,” says Murphy. “The project involved a total refurbishment of the building converting rooms into bars restaurants and private function rooms.”
Bringing atmosphere to the Old Post House
The Old Post Office began life as Chetwynd House after its construction by William Chetwynd, Member of Parliament for Stafford and 3rd Viscount of Maer. Amongst many surviving period features the property still retains its original 18th century gates within which William’s monogram can be seen. After William’s death in 1780, the house became occupied by William Horton who erected a warehouse and workshops at the rear of the house from which to run his large-scale business in shoe manufacture, an important and historic industry in Stafford. Over the years, and before its later uses as both a doctor’s surgery and local post office, the house attracted many influential people, members of government and those considered the elite society. These friends of William would gather for high society balls and parties, with even The Prince Regent enjoying a stay at Chetwynd House in the 1790’s.
Flexible and modular
Murphy then had to choose components that would allow him to bring the lighting scheme to life.
“The major advantage of working with ABB is that within the project it was immediately recognised as being a global company who manufacture world class products. This served to reassure the owner and main stakeholders that quality components were to be used throughout. We designed the system to have localised dimmers which could be sited very near to the venue lighting they are controlling. This dramatically cuts the cost of cable that needs to be used.
Overall control of the building is via a powerful ABB Comfort Touch in wall controller from within the Duty Manager’s office making scene setting and lighting control a simple task , a key requirement set out at the start of the project from our client. Each individual lighting scene for the various areas is easily recalled to ensure the perfect environment for the customer is always delivered.”
Unique and chic
Bringing the Old Post Office into modern day, the building is set to maintain its reputation as a social hub. The new ‘Post House’ complex will accommodate formal, informal and private dining, alongside a cocktail lounge, wine bar and bistro bar area, and will even boast its own patisserie. With exterior gardens that include a roof garden, this scenic venue will offer the best in conference and wedding facilities with space for event and demonstration areas, live music and dancing.
The Post House opened its doors in December and is already establishing a reputation as unique and chic venue for diners and those seeking a very special experience in this historic quarter of Stafford.