Exciting new era at Gibbon Bridge
A stunning new conservatory was unveiled to almost 200 guests attending a glittering opening night celebration at the Gibbon Bridge Hotel at Chipping.
The new state-of-the-art room is for dining and functions but it will undoubtedly become popular as one of the premier wedding venues in the north of England.
Owner Janet Simpson welcomed the guests who included couples who had booked the hotel for their future weddings. This allowed them to see the space in all its glory before their own big days.
The conservatory, which can accommodate around 130, has a very contemporary look with light oak panelling and floor-to-ceiling retractable windows allowing light to flood in and guests to admire the stunning gardens and surrounding Bowland countryside. The project was carried out by Alifast, a Knowsley business Janet read about in Lancashire Life. Outside, there is a new patio above the beautiful gardens. This area can accommodate a marquee adjoining the conservatory, providing space for another 60 guests.
Inside, there are striking hand-blown glass sculptures hanging from the ceiling. These were created by South African artist David Reade. Janet saw his work during a trip out there and she has several of his pieces around the hotel. These complement abstract wallcoverings created by John Mark Limited.
The centrepiece of the room, which has coloured lighting to suit the mood, includes two painted Victorian cast iron pillars Janet rescued when Preston Public Hall was demolished. There is also a new dance floor. On the opening night the room was filled with amazing floral displays by Springbank Flowers of Manchester.
The project, which took just six weeks to complete, has also included a makeover to the bar area and changes to the kitchens. ‘We felt we needed to update parts of the hotel to keep pace with modern tastes,’ said Janet, who built the business from a country guest house to a multi-award winning hotel. ‘We are extremely pleased with the result and our customers are delighted.’
