FURNITURE
From Bank to Bustling Bistro: A Full‐Service Fit-Out for Alora Restaurant
- CONTRACT FURNITURE GROUP-
Housed within a former bank building, Alora brings globally inspired tapas to Mapperley High Street, presenting a unique opportunity to transform a characterful space into a warm yet contemporary hospitality destination. Contract Furniture Group was appointed to deliver a complete restaurant fitout, building on an established relationship with the client following several successful projects across Nottinghamshire.
Working closely with the client and design team, Contract Furniture Group provided a turnkey solution covering layout development, bespoke joinery, fixed seating, loose furniture, soft furnishings and outdoor furniture. Early in the project, a key design challenge emerged: the original layout placed an open kitchen centrally, but low ceiling heights limited its viability. By reworking the plan and relocating the kitchen, the team improved circulation, enhanced sightlines and increased capacity to 76 covers, while creating space for a more prominent bar and clearly defined dining zones.
The bar became the focal point of the interior. Designed and manufactured by Contract Furniture Group, the curved structure features a black marble top with gold detailing and a slatted timber frontage, blending rustic texture with modern elegance. Bespoke back-bar cabinetry was integrated to support service efficiency while reinforcing the overall aesthetic.
Across the venue, carefully specified loose furniture helps define each area while maintaining a cohesive look. Upholstered bar stools, side chairs and marble tabletops introduce comfort and durability, while bespoke fabrics, leathers and finishes echo the venue’ s confident colour palette. In the main dining areas, fixed banquette seating maximises capacity and comfort, with deep fluted upholstery, rolled tops and integrated power points demonstrating how practical requirements can be seamlessly built into design-led solutions.
Contract Furniture Group also delivered soft furnishings and outdoor furniture, ensuring continuity from interior to exterior. Durable materials were selected throughout to meet the demands of a busy hospitality environment without compromising on visual impact.
The completed fit-out has helped Alora evolve beyond a dining-led venue into a lively social destination for both cocktails and food. Awarded two AA Rosettes since opening, the restaurant stands as a strong example of how considered contract furniture and full fit-out services can upgrade the overall hospitality experience.
Contract Furniture Group Contract House, Little Tennis Street South, NG2 4EU T: 0115 965 9030 E: onlineenquiries @ contractfurniture. co. uk W: www. contractfurniture. co. uk
- 50-