Our client, The Terrace Bar & Café, approached JGA with the brief of enhancing their existing outdoor area by designing and implementing a new outdoor covered bar area. The bar had to be designed to respect the site’s unique challenges and historical context.
Positioned at the base of a protected oak tree (PT4 Quercus Cerris), the project required consultation with arboricultural experts, Tree Dimensions, to ensure the tree’s health and longevity were safeguarded. The site, located on an old graveyard, presented additional sensitivities that influenced the substructure design and dictated how surface water was managed.
To mitigate the impact the construction may have on the tree and historic elements, a ground bearing base of steel universal columns encased in concrete was utilised to anchor the bar while avoiding extensive excavation. Surface water from the roof is collected and directed into an underground irrigation system that nourishes the protected tree, ensuring its sustainability. Permeable paving was also used throughout the area, allowing natural water infiltration and minimizing the environmental impact.
The superstructure features natural and light materials that complement the existing garden aesthetic of the restaurant, blending seamlessly into the vibrant external space. Designed to utilize previously underused seating and storage areas, the new bar adds a stylish and practical social hub, enhancing the overall functionality of the outdoor space. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Town Church and out to the East coast, creating an inviting and picturesque environment.
This thoughtful and sustainable design enriches The Terrace’s outdoor offering, maintaining harmony with its surroundings while providing a unique and vibrant addition to the popular restaurant.
