Dunkirk Tavern

Project Overview

Location: Derby

Property Type: Historic Public House

Purchase Price: £300,000

Build & Fees: £790,000

Gross Development Value: £1,515,000

Status: Complete

Deliverables: 19 high-end studio units across four stylish flats with communal spaces

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Revitalising Forgotten Heritage

The Dunkirk Tavern was a silent reminder of Derby's rich social history, a once-vibrant public house that had fallen into disrepair and abandonment. Where casual observers saw only dilapidation, The Berry Group recognised exceptional potential for property development to honour the building's heritage while creating contemporary living spaces for today's professionals.

The structure's robust Victorian construction provided an excellent foundation for redevelopment, but years of neglect had taken their toll. Extensive water damage, structural deterioration, and outdated systems presented significant challenges that would require technical expertise and creative vision.

Our vision for the Dunkirk Tavern centred on preserving its historical character whilst reimagining the internal spaces to create modern, efficient living environments. This approach aligns with our commitment to sustainable property development, recognising that the most environmentally responsible building often already exists and is thoughtfully adapted for contemporary use.

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Comprehensive Structural Engineering

The transformation of the Dunkirk Tavern demanded exceptional structural engineering expertise to address existing deficiencies and new spatial requirements. As a property development and construction company with deep experience in heritage properties, we approached this challenge with confidence and technical precision:

• Comprehensive structural assessment identified critical load-bearing elements requiring reinforcement

• Original foundations were underpinned where necessary to support additional loading

• The double-story extension was designed with careful attention to load transfer and settlement

• Advanced computer modelling ensured that structural interventions would perform optimally

• Existing masonry was carefully evaluated and repaired using traditional techniques

The most complex structural work involved the loft conversion: a significant engineering challenge requiring the removal of original king and queen trusses that had supported the roof structure for over a century. This demanding task required meticulous planning and sequencing:

• Temporary works were designed to maintain structural integrity during the conversion process

• 17 rolled steel joists (RSJs) were precisely positioned to create new load paths

• Steel columns were introduced to transfer loads effectively to the foundations

• New floor structures were integrated with existing elements to create seamless transitions

• Roof geometry was maintained to preserve the building's external appearance

This intensive structural work transformed previously unusable roof space into exceptional living accommodation, significantly enhancing the property's value while preserving its architectural character.

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Architectural Integration: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future

The double-story extension represented opportunity and challenge: expanding the building's footprint while maintaining its architectural integrity. Our INCO architecture team approached this with a design philosophy that celebrated the junction between old and new:

• The extension's massing was carefully proportioned to complement the original building

• Material selections created dialogue between historic and contemporary elements

• Window rhythms and proportions referenced the original architecture while introducing modern detailing

• Interior sight lines were designed to reveal the relationship between the original and new spaces

• Strategic roof design ensured the extension appeared as a natural evolution of the building

This thoughtful approach to architectural integration ensured that the extension enhanced rather than compromised the building's character. As specialists in commercial property development, we understand that successful adaptation must respect architectural heritage while confidently introducing contemporary elements that support modern functionality.

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Space Planning: Maximising Value and Liveability

Transforming a former public house into 19 residential units required innovative space planning to maximise liveability and commercial return. Unlike conventional apartment layouts, our approach embraced the building's idiosyncrasies, creating uniquely characterful living spaces:

• Original features (including exposed beams, fireplaces, and distinctive windows) became focal points around which living spaces were organised

• Vertical circulation was positioned to optimise usable floor area while meeting building regulations

• Communal spaces were strategically positioned to encourage social interaction and community building

By distributing the 19 units across four flats, we created manageable resident communities offering privacy and social connection. This balance appeals particularly to young professionals seeking independence and community in their living environment.

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Outbuilding Transformation: Creating Community Assets

The property's derelict outbuilding represented an opportunity to create valuable communal facilities to enhance the overall resident experience. Rather than demolishing this structure, we recognised its potential to contribute to the development's distinctive character:

• Careful structural stabilisation preserved the outbuilding's original fabric

• Thoughtful space planning created versatile areas for different resident activities

• High-quality finishes elevated the space beyond typical communal facilities

This transformed outbuilding now provides residents with additional amenities beyond their private living spaces - a valuable asset that enhances rental appeal and supports community development among residents.

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Technical Excellence: Meeting Contemporary Standards

Beyond visual transformation, the Dunkirk Tavern project demanded comprehensive technical upgrading to meet contemporary comfort, safety, and efficiency standards. As a construction company near me for many Derby residents, we implemented systems that would ensure this property's exceptional performance.

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Interior Design: Elevating the Resident Experience

The Berry Group's commitment to quality is particularly evident in the interior design of the Dunkirk Tavern development. Through our Urban Bespoke Interiors division, we created living environments that offer exceptional quality rarely found in comparable properties:

• Material palettes were carefully selected to complement both historical and contemporary elements

• Bathroom and kitchen specifications exceeded market expectations for comparable properties

• Bespoke joinery solutions maximised functionality within compact studio layouts

• Thoughtful details throughout create a sense of quality and attention that distinguishes the development

This investment in interior quality supports premium rental values and attracts tenants who appreciate the difference between standard accommodation and truly exceptional living environments.

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Project Management Excellence

Transforming a dilapidated public house into 19 high-quality residential units required exceptional project management capabilities. The Berry Group's integrated approach delivered efficiency without compromising quality:

• Comprehensive pre-acquisition surveys informed realistic budgeting and scheduling

• Multi-disciplinary design team collaboration prevented coordination issues during construction

• Phased construction approach optimised resource allocation and trade sequencing

• Quality control procedures ensured consistent standards throughout the development

• Regular progress monitoring against critical path activities maintained schedule integrity

• Proactive problem-solving prevented minor issues from growing into significant delays

This disciplined approach to project management ensured that the Dunkirk Tavern development progressed efficiently from acquisition to completion, maximising return on investment while delivering exceptional quality.

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Investment Performance

The financial metrics of the Dunkirk Tavern project demonstrate The Berry Group's ability to create exceptional value through intelligent property development. The transformation from a derelict public house to 19 high-quality residential units increased the property's value from the purchase price of £300,000 to a gross development value of £1,515,000 - a 405% increase achieved with a build cost of £790,000.

Beyond this impressive capital appreciation, the property delivers strong ongoing returns through:

• Premium rental rates justified by the high-quality specification and distinctive character

• Reduced maintenance costs due to the quality of materials and workmanship

• Lower void periods resulting from the property's appeal to discerning tenants

• Operational efficiencies created by thoughtful design features

• Strong asset growth potential due to the property's unique character and quality

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Community Impact

The Dunkirk Tavern development represents a positive contribution to the broader community beyond pure commercial outcomes:

• Rehabilitation of a derelict building that had become a local eyesore

• Preservation of architectural heritage that contributes to local character

• Creation of high-quality housing that attracts professionals to the area

• Increased economic activity supporting local businesses

• Improved street presence, enhancing neighbourhood safety and appeal

These broader benefits reflect The Berry Group's commitment to property development that creates value for investors, residents, and the wider community.

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Conclusion: The Berry Group Difference

In this landmark project, The Berry Group demonstrated its ability to recognise hidden potential in challenging structures and orchestrate the technical, creative, and commercial elements necessary to bring that vision to life. We transformed a neglected building into a thriving residential community by applying comprehensive expertise across architecture, construction, and interior design.

This project demonstrates why The Berry Group has established itself as a leading construction company for challenging heritage conversions across the Midlands. Our ability to envision potential where others see only problems, our technical capability to overcome complex structural challenges, and our commitment to design quality collectively create exceptional outcomes for investors, residents, and communities.

The Dunkirk Tavern stands as compelling evidence of The Berry Group's capabilities for those seeking property development expertise that balances commercial returns with architectural sensitivity and design excellence.