Permit Room Cambridge

Case Study

Cambridge

The design of Permit Room is a sidestep from its sister brand Dishoom, offering a more independent vibe for this all-day bar-café. Nestled on bustling Trinity Street in Cambridge, the venue is tucked behind an ornate arched doorway – one of the last surviving elements of the 18th century Blue Boar Hotel. Inside, a warm welcome awaits. 

With influences taken from the infamous quarter bars of Bombay, combined with the hospitality of the British pub, Permit Room Cambridge aims to create a sense of community.  

Colourful artwork adorns the wall throughout the cafe, including carefully curated bespoke pieces and illustrations from South Asian artists showcasing the soul and character of Permit Room. 

With music at the heart of the brand, a beautiful vintage jukebox and custom-made DJ booth take centre stage, flowing seamlessly into a vivid yellow bar. Visible from just about every corner of the space, this is a focal point for guests to hang out in a relaxed setting. 

The back bar shelves are stocked full of bottled cocktails while full height fridges are brimming with locally brewed beverages, made through collaboration with local and independent drinks brands.  

As well as defined dining areas, there are also comfortable nooks and hang-out spots to cater for any type of get-together, whether it’s a quiet drink at the bar, a quick catch up among a gaggle of stools, or a larger celebration with friends.  

Subtle touches give the entire space a unique feeling of nostalgia, with vintage pieces purchased from Bombay, tables with glass-covered-tablecloth tops, turquoise gloss-painted anaglypta wallpaper and patterned Marmoleum floors. It’s hard to place the space in a particular era. Instead, the space has been created to evoke a feeling of good times. 

Permit Room Cambridge main entrance
Permit Room Cambridge interior entrance
Permit Room Cambridge exterior
Permit Room Cambridge dining
Permit Room Cambridge front bar
Permit Room Cambridge DJ walla
Permit Room Cambridge outside seating

Journal

Permit Room Cambridge empty interior
Permit Room Cambridge entrance sketch
Interior work conducted on Permit Room Cambridge
Permit Room Cambridge interior sketch
Permit Room Cambridge clock decor
Permit Room Cambridge cabinet features
Permit Room Cambridge lighting fixture
Permit Room Cambridge wooden table leg
Permit Room Cambridge bench
Permit Room Cambridge entrance signage

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