An iconic 'gate lodge' in Co Down has just benefited from a substantial refurbishment.

The project at the Cultra Inn - which is part of the prestigious Culloden Hotel & Spa complex - was, according to Alan Irwin of Mi Architects - after a clear brief by the client.

Hasting Hotels' Managing Director, Howard Hastings said he wanted to produce a more "stimulating dining environment for customers".

"Mr Hastings suggested opening up views into the busy kitchen, which is located at the heart of the premises," said Mr Irwin.

"This overriding objective created an opportunity to re-examine and re-design the kitchen layout to produce a more rational flow of processes and to draw the Chefs into a much more rewarding and stimulating relationship with their waiting staff and customers."

The architect said that the cooking and preparation areas within the kitchen have all been increased in size and re-positioned to coincide with a large structural opening, which allows public views into this busy area.

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"This opening is filled with a multi-purpose piece of bespoke furniture that accommodates bain-marie, hot cupboard and pass," he continued.

"The new counter can be simply transformed at weekends to function as a buffet counter and carvery.

"This eliminates the need for other mobile equipment that is unsightly and difficult to store when not in use," he explained.

A second large structural opening has been formed and the floor area of the kitchen increased to create a dedicated beverage and patisserie area. This new facility is also highly visible to customers.

Meanwhile, the kitchen, wash up and patisserie area have been thoroughly re-furbished with new ventilation and specialist catering equipment by local firm, Stephens Catering Equipment.

Services have been concealed and a new smooth plaster ceiling and recessed lighting has been installed to create a hygienic working environment. Walls have been finished with a mixture of stainless steel, hygienic wall cladding and traditional wall tiles.

"New slip resistant vinyl flooring and coved skirtings complete this serviceable and hygienic commercial kitchen," said Mr Irwin.

"Glass mosaics and a porcelain floor define the new structural openings between the kitchen and restaurant as a contemporary feature in this established restaurant," he continued, noting that the overall objective was to create a "high quality interface between the kitchen and its customers".

"This image has been extended around the kitchen to ensure that the kitchen and the restaurant come together to create a consistent and memorable image of the Cultra Inn," the architect concluded.

Mr Irwin worked closely with the contractor - represented by Gary Holmes and Neil MacFarlane of Grahams of Dromore - whose skilled workers completed the £60,000 project in good time.

The newly refurbished premises were handed over in the early part of March and have received positive reviews from both established and new customers to the Cultra facility.

(BMcC/GK)