The Wool House conversion and refit to The Dancing Man Brewery was the culmination of a dynamic partnership between Hexley, the Dancing Man Brewery, Southampton City Council and English Heritage. It allowed us to showcase our total in-house commercial refurbishment capability, to the delight of everyone involved. This extensive refurbishment and repurposing project transformed a former museum in Southampton’s Grade I listed medieval Wool House into The Dancing Man Brewery, a multi-functional, access-for-all hospitality venue.
The project extensively used reclaimed materials, furniture and fittings, and was completed to specification, on time, on budget and within English Heritage guidelines to conserve the historic fabric of the building. A new mezzanine floor utilises the space up into the arched rafters and roof, accessed via a reclaimed iron spiral staircase. Partitioning created an office, staff and store rooms, and a Green Room for musicians/performers.
This facility is self-supporting and does not compromise the building’s existing structure. Two bars serve award-winning real ales brewed in the onsite viewable microbrewery. The project was logistically challenging with the sheer scope of work utilising every aspect of our fit out and project management capability. From surveying, testing, removing and repairing through to bespoke design, construction, installation, making good and decorating, all works were completed to target.
We couldn’t have done it without Hexley. They are true craftsmen. We are totally delighted and can’t wait to get the keys and start brewing. It will be great to have the building open again and we have endless possibilities with the chance for exhibitions, artists and musicians. We are a creative business in a beautiful building and we will mix that with good food and beer.
