The Windsor Ale House has dug up its long standing roots as an Irish bar and planted a new vibrant foundation in the heart of Punt Road Windsor. The backpackers still pour out of the upstairs hostel, retaining the Pint on Punt name but downstairs the transformation is striking as well as impressive. Long-time owner, Evan Mahoney knew it was time to renounce the moody Irish theme and engaged Visual Builders, via recommendation, to construct the project. The design brief was to create an Industrial atmosphere, connect the interior to the exterior and to bring light to the previously dim venue.

The enormous bar features both raw and polished timbers with contrasting heavyset mesh, while cantilevered benches surround the area and provide extensive seating and standing areas for the busy crowds. The Brew Room dining area provides booth style seating and tall urban timber tables with metal stools, catering for functions and casual dining. The high gloss steel windows flood the area with natural light and can be fully opened to encompass the outdoor areas seamlessly. Exposed brick pillars and structural elements of the ceiling are highlighted whilst expansive wall art flaunts the unique copper lines. Visual Builders alongside Burton & Carter Architects were able to successfully translate the requirements and produce a setting that is creative, comfortable and highly functional.