Grade II Treasure Saved In Style
Following loving restoration of a threatened heritage property in central St Annes, Fylde Coast residents have welcomed the opening of Cheshire-based Homebird Interiors into the former Public Offices writes Kate Bowyer
Built in 1900, the old Public Offices building on Clifton Drive South had been at the community’s heart for generations. Following the relocation of the council to newer premises, however, the Grade II listed building was falling into disrepair.
As the council sought tenants to restore and safeguard the property, sister entrepreneurs Miri Templeton and Darrell Whittaker were looking to expand their Cheshire-based home furnishings business Homebird Interiors, founded in 2008.
“With its historic features and community legacy, we fell in love with the old Public Offices building straightaway,” explains Miri. “Although it meant taking on a much bigger restoration and renovation project, we couldn’t leave it to vanish from the town.”
After several years’ careful planning and renovation in compliance with strict English Heritage regulations, by mid-October, the store was ready for its grand unveiling.
Eager shoppers and residents keen to see the careful restoration of the building’s original features streamed excitedly through the doors, discovering introductory offers and much to tempt. First customers through the tills were thrilled to receive complimentary gift bags and the chance to win a £500 gift voucher.
The fifth shop in the chain, St Annes becomes Homebird’s flagship store. Their first in Lancashire, it’s the largest in the range, giving them the opportunity to showcase exclusive new lines, and future plans for an instore coffee shop and café.
Behind its original Victorian bow windows, shoppers are discovering Homebird’s signature relaxed, informal style, featuring natural materials and neutral colours with French, New England and Nordic influences.
From hand-carved oak tables to soft stylish sofas, locally sourced sea-glass candlesticks, personally selected homewares, gifts and accessories are beautifully displayed in intimate home-styled nooks and alcoves, giving browsers a unique insight into how well they fit with both contemporary and traditional homes.
Miri reflects: “Really embracing our belief that sustainable style should be affordable for everyone, everyone’s warm welcome and good wishes have made all the hard work worthwhile. Working round the clock meant we could launch the shop and dress it for Christmas, which we always make extra-special. With plenty of decorations and accessories in store, there’s still time for shoppers to order larger furniture pieces like our popular corner sofas and have them delivered for Christmas – if they get in quick!”
Homebird Interiors
The Old Public Offices
292-294 Clifton Drive South
Lytham St Annes FY8 1LH
07902 700 341
stannes@homebirdfurniture.co.uk
homebirdfurniture.co.uk
facebook/Homebird-St.Annes
