Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

DETAIL

Cooper8 were appointed to deliver the interior design and operational layout for a new museum café and terrace in Bournemouth, Dorset. The brief was to create a welcoming and profitable café that worked as a destination in its own right, while seamlessly connecting with the historic Russell-Cotes collection and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Our design approach brought cohesion, visual identity, and clear operational flow, combining café interior design, heritage-sensitive catering layouts, and furniture planning. A standout feature was the transformation of an unsightly wall with a dramatic hanging banner, inspired by a willow plate from the museum’s extensive collection. Enlarged to large scale, this bespoke artwork created a striking backdrop to the café counter and reinforced the link between heritage and contemporary design.

We also coordinated all mechanical and electrical services to support the new layout, ensuring the scheme was practical, efficient, and future-proofed. Delivered on time and within budget, the project demonstrates our expertise in museum café design, heritage catering consultancy, and hospitality interiors across the UK.

Scope of Work

• Space-feasibility appraisal
• Concept development
• Planning and layout design with options
• Detailed café counter design
• Mechanical & electrical services coordination
• Lighting design
• Interior design
• 3D visuals
• Catering equipment specification
• Furniture layout and servery design
• Flooring design and specification
• Review and interview of catering contractors

“Cooper8 Ltd worked closely with Kendrick Hobbs to interpret our requirements and delivered an exciting and successful project. A café facility that connects with the museum and heritage collection, adds value to our visitor experience and is a destination in its own right.”
— Susan P. Hayward, Heritage Manager, Bournemouth Borough Council