Restoration and feature build work for the Elephant House Cafe in Edinburgh, including bespoke signage and custom lighting elements.
- Bespoke elephant signage feature
- Custom lighting integrated into restored interior
- Designed to complement wider multi-contractor restoration
- Subtle additions that enhance existing character
The Brief
We were brought in to support the restoration of the Elephant House Cafe in Edinburgh, contributing bespoke feature elements as part of a wider refurbishment carried out by multiple contractors. The goal was to help reintroduce character to the space while respecting the building’s existing identity and history.
Our role focused on adding distinctive details that would sit naturally within the restored environment rather than dominate it. These elements needed to feel integrated into the building, complementing the broader work being undertaken by others while still offering something unique for visitors.
The brief required a careful balance between creativity and restraint, ensuring that any additions enhanced the space without conflicting with the overall restoration approach.
Our Solution
We designed and fabricated a series of bespoke feature elements, including custom signage and lighting installations, to complement the restored interior. Each piece was developed to feel appropriate to the setting, with materials and finishes selected to align with the character of the building.
The elephant sign was created as a subtle focal point, providing a recognisable feature without overwhelming the facade or interior. Alongside this, custom lighting was introduced to add warmth and highlight key areas of the space, improving both atmosphere and functionality.
Close coordination with other contractors ensured that our work integrated cleanly into the wider restoration. Installation was carried out with care to avoid disruption and to maintain the integrity of the surrounding finishes.
By focusing on well-considered details rather than large-scale interventions, the build added interest and identity while remaining consistent with the overall refurbishment.
The completed work contributes to a restored cafe environment that feels cohesive and thoughtfully detailed. The added features sit comfortably within the space, enhancing its character without drawing attention away from the building itself.
The signage and lighting provide subtle points of interest for visitors while supporting the day-to-day operation of the cafe. As part of a wider collaborative restoration, the project demonstrates how smaller, well-executed elements can have a meaningful impact on the overall feel of a space.
Gallery
Every project begins with a conversation. If you’re exploring an idea, responding to a brief, or assessing what might be possible within a particular space or context, we’re happy to talk things through and help identify the most appropriate next steps.