The Auld Chimp at Urmston Station
With Guinness fever showing no signs of dying down, the guys at Brew Chimp had a vision to bring some Irish charm to Urmston in the form of The Auld Chimp – an Irish-inspired bar set within the old station master’s office at the town’s railway station. Our job was to help them bring this vision to life with bespoke joinery, precise fabrication, and a finish that embraced the building’s rich history.
Location
Contract Value
Materials
Tongue & groove timber cladding
Laminate panels for toilet cubicles
Bar signage
Brass bar rail
Design
Our role began in the early concept stages, working closely with the client to shape their ideas into a tangible plan. We provided full design support, from early-stage consultation and material sampling through to photo-realistic renders and technical drawings. These gave the team a clear picture of how the bar would sit within the station’s unique architecture and allowed us to lock in key design elements collaboratively.
Fabrication
Fabrication took place at our workshop, where the materials were CNC-machined for accuracy and consistency. The standout feature is the solid-looking, traditionally styled bar counter, crafted from rich lacquered oak veneered panels. Deep panelling added depth and a heritage feel, while the expert joinery and craftsmanship give the bar a pristine and contemporary aesthetic.
The panels were carefully edged and lacquered for a smooth, durable finish that can withstand the daily hustle of a busy bar environment. The bar’s build was completed off-site and fully assembled to check alignment before final delivery.
Installation
Once onsite, our team removed the existing bar and installed the new unit swiftly, integrating it with the building’s original brickwork and timber. Tongue and groove cladding was added to walls and ceilings throughout to further warm up the space and echo traditional pub aesthetics. We also built custom pot shelves situated around the venue for placing pints, fabricated and installed all branded signage, and fitted toilet cubicles finished to spec with moisture-resistant materials.
We worked alongside plumbers, electricians, and bar line installers to ensure everything came together without disruption – a key consideration in a building with the character (and quirks) of a former railway office.
The Result
The Auld Chimp is a brilliant mix of old soul and new energy. The finished interior feels established, like it’s always been there, thanks in large part to the detailing and materials that blend effortlessly into the original bones of the building. For us, it was a chance to apply our technical expertise to something deeply creative and grounded in place, and we’re proud to have helped make it happen.
