It is a rare privilege to become the guardian of a 12th-century, Grade I listed building.
Standing in a prominent position in the heart of York, St. John’s is a profound piece of the city’s history. Our vision was to breathe new, sustainable life into its ancient walls, transforming it into a contemporary destination while honouring its incredible heritage. We saw the potential to create a vibrant space that would celebrate the building’s unique character and secure its future for generations to come.
A Sensitive Transformation
Our approach was one of meticulous care and creative intervention, allowing us to adapt the building for a new purpose without compromising its soul.
Careful Restoration: We undertook a painstaking restoration of the historic fabric, ensuring this irreplaceable piece of architecture was treated with the utmost respect.
A Modern Intervention: To maximise the potential of the magnificent interior volume, we sensitively introduced a new mezzanine floor. This considered addition allows the height and scale of the space to be fully appreciated while making it viable for its new use.
Today, St. John’s thrives as a contemporary bar, once again playing a vital role in the social life of the city.
The project stands as a testament to our ability to reform and reimagine even the most sensitive of historic buildings, contributing to the vibrancy and vitality of York’s city centre and proving that the old and new can work together in spectacular harmony.
