The Orange Tree - Congleton

Our Award Winning Design for The Orange Tree Congleton...

The Orange Tree is a celebration of heritage, hospitality, and placemaking, demonstrating how sensitive restoration and thoughtful design can transform a historic building into a thriving contemporary destination. Working with Parogon Group, we reimagined this Grade II listed Georgian landmark, creating a venue that honours its rich history while delivering an exceptional customer experience for modern-day guests.

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Guided by our philosophy of people, place, flow, and business, the design centred on restoring the building's original character while ensuring it performs effectively as a successful hospitality venue. The project sought to recapture the elegance and grandeur of its late 18th-century origins, creating a destination that feels deeply connected to Congleton's heritage whilst offering a fresh and engaging experience for visitors.

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Originally built as Mortlake House for the Johnson family, the property holds a significant place in the town's history. Years of neglect had diminished many of its defining architectural features, presenting an opportunity to carefully restore and celebrate the building's story. Key elements including the elegant elliptical staircase, decorative ceiling roses, and intricate mouldings were reinstated, bringing a renewed sense of authenticity and character throughout the space.

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The design creates a seamless connection between past and present. Generous Georgian sash windows flood the interiors with natural light, allowing bold colours, layered textures, and carefully selected furnishings to bring warmth and energy to the building. Rich tones are balanced with softer palettes to create a sophisticated environment that feels both timeless and welcoming, encouraging guests to relax, connect, and enjoy their surroundings.

Flow was a key driver throughout the project. Every space was considered as part of a wider customer journey, from arrival through to dining, socialising, and celebration. Operational requirements were integrated seamlessly into the design, including an expanded kitchen and enhanced service areas, ensuring the venue can deliver exceptional hospitality while maintaining an effortless guest experience.

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The restoration reinforces the building's relationship with its surroundings, preserving an important piece of Congleton's architectural heritage while introducing a renewed sense of purpose and vitality. By respecting the history of the property and carefully adapting it for contemporary use, the design strengthens the connection between the venue, the local community, and the wider town centre.

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The result is a destination that successfully balances historical authenticity with modern hospitality. Recognised with the Northern Design Award for Best Restaurant and Dining Project over £750,000, The Orange Tree demonstrates how thoughtful design can create meaningful experiences, celebrate local heritage, and support long-term business success. Through a careful balance of restoration, customer experience, and operational planning, the venue has become a landmark destination that reflects the very best of people, place, flow, and business.

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