The challenge

Illuminati was opened in Burnley in December 2013 and aims to provide a city vibe close to home. Chantelle Lighting originally provided their manufactured industrial pendant lights for their downstairs bar when they first opened, so when they planned to refurbish the upstairs bar into a 'Rock Room', local business Chantelle were the first they came to.

Illuminati aim to stand out from the crowd by delivering the best music in a select, stylish interior. Their creative cocktail menu offers something different to their customers and is served by waiters in bow ties for that upmarket feel.

Business Owner Tom Lord was working with a short lead time but still wanted light fittings that would have maximum impact and work with the theme of the upstairs bar. "We had to turn the refurb around fast but didn't want to stray from our design ideas, luckily Chantelle had a great range of products in stock that they could offer which worked with our scheme.

The solution

With a clear vision in mind, Tom chose Chantelle's top hat pendant lights to adorn the bar. The hats are minimal, black with a gold inner, but combined with the filament bulb they give the bar a nostalgic feel. Across the room is a private booth area with black leather sofas and multi drop fitting subtly highlights this area with the warm glow of various filament bulbs.

Aether, the geometric pendant from Chantelle's Elemental Range hangs in a cluster of three above the staircase with a rustic filament bulb within each. The smooth brass fittings give a hint to the contemporary décor that is downstairs and subtly illuminate the quotes that are on the walls as you walk downstairs.

The result

After a successful launch night in October, the Rock Room was a hit. Fairy lights dressed the windows and a retro cinematic light box can be seen behind the bar, letting the customers know who is serving them that evening. The new retro scheme is classic and authentic, and all design features tie in well together. Chantelle Lighting Managing Director Anthony Holly was thrilled to see a local bar thriving. "It's always great when local businesses work together, and its fantastic to see Illuminati doing so well. Lighting is key when it comes to setting the right mood and ambience for a bar, and the various pieces we provided work brilliantly with their design.