The transformation of the historic Old Stables into the Park Life Café at Towneley Park, Burnley stands as a testament to blending heritage with modernity. This Grade 2 listed building, located in the heart of Townley Park and adjacent to the 14th Century Towneley Hall, has undergone a meticulous refurbishment to offer visitors a unique experience.

Undertaking a comprehensive fit-out of the café, the project was part of a million-pound restoration within the 445 acres of breath-taking parkland and woodland. The design, provided by Space Invader, was to preserve the building's historic charm while introducing contemporary design elements to create an inviting atmosphere. Originally the stables for Towneley Hall, this historic building has been undergoing work for a few years by the council to restore its significance.

When you enter the building, you will find yourself in the main seating area. This area showcases the original brickwork, a prominent feature of the listed building that remains untouched to preserve its historical integrity. Enhancements included new lighting, flooring, plaster, paint, and brand-new fixed and free furniture, all carefully selected to complement the original architecture. The result is a warm, modern area with a hint of tradition.

A highlight of the café is the dining area with an American diner-style curved counter. This counter, featuring two food displays, a coffee machine, and a till area, was fully stripped out, refurbished, and re-plastered. The frontage, adorned with hundreds of tiles, has a striking pattern that follows the curve, making it a focal point of the café and enhancing the dining experience. Modern lighting, clean walls, smooth lines, and a few small seating areas complete this impressive space that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end dining establishment.

The kitchen area was also modernised, with the space being slightly increased. Visible to the public, this area boasts beautifully tiled walls that separate yet complement the overall scheme of the venue. The modernisation includes value engineering and brand-new energy-efficient equipment, ensuring the kitchen is equipped for efficient food preparation while maintaining an appealing aesthetic.

The restrooms received a full makeover. The plumbing was brought up to standard, and the restrooms were updated with modern features and beautifully finished, making them unrecognisable from their original state. This ensures visitors enjoy a comfortable and pleasant experience throughout the café.

The seamless blend of historic charm and contemporary design creates an inviting atmosphere for all who visit. The Park Life Café at Townley Park is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a celebration of history and a vision of modern restoration done right.