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Pitcher & Piano at Brindley Place

Project name
Pitcher & Piano at Brindley Place
Project sector
Hospitality
Completion date
07/01/23
Client
JMDA
Ranges
Crest, Romany

The Pitcher & Piano was the first bar concept that focused on the female customer.

Developed by branding agency Piper in 1986, Pitcher & Piano was an attempt to understand the motivations of most young people who go out for a drink. It heralded a new breed of bars and restaurants that disrupted the old-fashioned pubs and wine bars that had dominated the market.

Marston’s Brewery bought Pitcher & Piano in 1996 and recently opened a branch in Brindley Place, Birmingham’s waterfront nightspot. For designers at JMDA, it was an opportunity to create something extraordinary: a chance to elevate and reimagine an iconic British establishment.

The journey began with a longstanding relationship between the design team and Marston’s. Known for their expertise in pub refurbishments, the team was invited to breathe new life into the Pitcher & Piano brand, stepping beyond their usual projects and embracing the challenge to add a distinctive touch to their portfolio.

Charged with the task of appealing to a younger audience, the design team was given a clear direction: bring the brand forward. Marston’s envisioned varying seating areas, abundant feature lighting, and a standout bar that would position Pitcher & Piano head and shoulders above the competition. 

Solus Area Sales Manager Mark Blamires was approached by JMDA to assist with the design. “This was a fantastic project to be involved in as the requirements of the specification were so diverse. JMDA are always a pleasure to work with and I think they’ve done something very special here.”

With a kick-off on August 30, 2022, and a remarkable finish on September 30, 2022, the project unfolded within a tight timeframe, showcasing the team's efficiency and dedication.  

Holli Fletcher from JMDA talked us through the design. “The design elements of Pitcher & Piano at Brindley Place are nothing short of spectacular. Warm green hues, accents of burnt orange and coral, brass feature lighting leading to the bar and dance floor—all harmoniously come together to create a visually stunning space. The ground floor is a masterclass in design, with ribbed fixed seating, up-lit rods, and a mix of materials creating a dynamic atmosphere. The lower ground floor, with its moody hues, glass Crittal doors, and Birmingham-inspired artwork, adds a touch of exclusivity.”

Externally, the site features four outdoor seating areas, two of which overlook the iconic canal at Brindley Place. Custom lit signage, a butterfly canopy, and vibrant green and coral furniture contribute to an inviting external aesthetic.

No project is without its challenges. The site's tricky location, with no direct road access, presented logistical challenges for suppliers. However, the team turned these challenges into opportunities, maximising external space and creating an iconic setting. 

The true measure of success is client satisfaction, and in this case, the client was not just satisfied but delighted. Being involved in the process from start to finish, Marston’s witnessed their initial brief come to life. Pitcher & Piano at Brindley Place is now a flagship bar, a testament to the collaborative effort and creative vision of the design team.

This project holds immense significance for the design team as it adds another successful concept brand to their portfolio. Tailoring their approach to meet individual needs, the team's interior design concepts have established a series of successful brands, with Pitcher & Piano now proudly joining their ranks. The anticipation of refreshing the face of this beloved British brand across the UK in the future adds an exciting dimension to their journey.

The transformation of Pitcher & Piano at Brindley Place is not just a design success; it's a story of collaboration, creativity, and overcoming challenges. It stands as a shining example of how a vision, when brought to life with passion and precision, can redefine the identity of a brand and create an unforgettable experience for patrons. In the dynamic world of design and innovation, every project is an opportunity to create something extraordinary. 

CREDIT

Interior Design

JMDA

Client

Marstons

Photography

Ben Carpenter and Sam Kelly