Light shed on the future of empty listed building
A large building in Bath which has been empty for a while has a bright new future, it has been revealed.
Work has been going on behind the scenes at 114-116 Walcot Street, inset, without much sign of what the end result will be.
But now all can be revealed and Jim Lawrence, a British vintage lighting and home furnishings business, will open inside the Grade II listed building, according to a large notice on the shopfront.
The sign reads: “New Bath store opening this autumn featuring our collection of elegant vintage lighting and home furnishings. Recruiting now. See online for details. www.jim-lawrence.co.uk.”
The premises, which has been empty for a couple of years, was occupied by Richard Hathaway Lighting.
More information has been released on the Jim Lawrence blog. It says this spot will be its new ‘flagship store.’
The post reads: “We’ve shared some teasers with you in the past few weeks, but are thrilled to finally be able to reveal more about our stunning new shop location.
“We have officially completed, got the keys, and are beavering away to renovate this elegant building as we speak.
“There’s a fair bit to do (as you can see!) but we hope Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home in Bath will be up and running early autumn. The adventure starts here...
“Opening our first regional shop right in the middle of Bath like this is only possible thanks to everyone’s amazing work and commitment, helping grow the company to where it is today. This includes you, our lovely customers. There’s nothing more rewarding than meeting you face to face at shows and in our Suffolk showroom and headquarters, so we’re very much looking forward to meeting our dedicated audience in the West.”
The business then laid out why this location was chosen.
The blog post reads: “the amazing selection of interior shops and expertise on the street mean you really can get everything you need for a period home here from paints, carpets and antique mirrors, to upholsterers and interior designers. There is also a fab flea market on Saturdays, so if you love vintage interiors style there’s plenty to explore after popping in and saying hello to us.
“The unique curve of the shop front is what initially drew us to this spot. Reputedly it was built as such to make space for the coaches turning from the Bell Coaching Inn opposite.
“We were also excited to learn that we would be following in historic footsteps at 114-16 Walcot Street. Previously owned by much loved Richard Hathaway Lighting, we are pleased to be carrying on the tradition for showcasing beautiful lighting in this iconic location.”