Bullhouse East Taproom

The project brings a vacant retail unit back into use, contributing to the nascent regeneration of part of East Belfast. The site is 2 minutes’ walk from Hall McKnight’s studio and lies within an area related to a former regeneration plan developed by HMcK which relates to the confluence of two recently established urban greenways. The limited budget was carefully managed to create an inclusive and convivial space which brings life to a main arterial route between Belfast City Centre and the east of the city and the suburbs beyond. It contributes active frontage day and night to a stretch of the road that has been shuttered from 5pm for several decades. Re-using the existing shutters and shopfront glazing minor amendments were made to the signage fascia. Internally the floor was repaired and painted. The fixed benches and bar were formed using brick that was salvaged from the creation of new openings between the bar, beer garden and backstreet. Ash-veneered panelling from the former retail fit out was stained and recycled, and metal framing from the former fitting rooms was painted to create a lighting feature. The main project cost related to a new ventilation system that generates sufficient air changes to address building control requirements for the internal environment (taking post-covid concerns into account). Externally the beer garden provides seating and a wood-fired pizza oven and associated kitchen area. Bullhouse East is a huge success, drawing a very diverse clientele of all ages; as envisaged by the client, the project has become a place for everyone and provides a much-needed social venue and local employment. In the medium term Bullhouse East has the potential to serve as a catalyst for further business investment in the immediate vicinity.