At Select Interiors, we excel at crafting immersive environments that bring bold concepts to life. One of our latest ventures, The Big Bakes Manchester, highlights our expertise in interior commercial design, combining innovative functionality with stunning aesthetics. This northern flagship venue celebrates the award-winning interactive baking experience inspired by the beloved Bake-Off TV series. Merging hospitality with hands-on entertainment delivers a unique and memorable visitor journey.
From concept to completion: Crafting a baking haven
Located at 4 New Bailey in the heart of Manchester, we worked with The Big Bakes team to transform a raw 4,700 sq. ft. space into a vibrant venue. The design captures the essence of a summer baking marquee while honouring Manchester’s architectural heritage. The building’s iconic steel cross-bracing and diagrid façade serve as a dramatic industrial backdrop.
Collaborating with the renowned Ellis Design Studio, Select Interiors created a fully immersive environment. Visitors enter through a pantry-themed space adorned with whimsical baking elements, stepping through a fridge door into the heart of the experience—a baking marquee equipped for 12 interactive baking stations. Professional bakers guide participants through 90-minute sessions, enhancing the venue’s charm and functionality.
The project scope: Elevating design and functionality
Select Interiors undertook a comprehensive scope of work for this commercial interior design project, encompassing both Cat A and Cat B fit-out services. Key highlights include:
Structural innovation
The design and construction of a bespoke mezzanine to maximise floor space, providing an elevated dining area ideal for corporate events and meetings.
Interior features
Bespoke joinery, resin radial bar tops, custom shelving, wainscot cladding, and a hexagonal seating arrangement featuring a faux tree centrepiece.
Cutting-edge fit-out
Installation of raised access flooring, HVAC systems, computer access flooring, lighting, plumbing, and fire safety measures.
Creative spaces
A vibrant 52-cover restaurant, a 12-cover bar, and interiors inspired by the baking marquee experience.
Specialist installations
Fully equipped baking stations, a commercial kitchen, and washrooms designed to reflect the venue’s unique identity.
Overcoming challenges with expertise
The project was delivered within a tight 14-week timeframe, demanding precise project management and seamless collaboration across multiple disciplines. Navigating new building control regulations for mezzanine floors required adaptive design to ensure full compliance while managing material deliveries in a confined city-centre location posed logistical challenges that were met with sustainable solutions. Throughout the process, the team balanced creativity with practicality to meet the exacting standards of the Big Bakes team, ensuring a successful and high-quality result.
A collaborative triumph
Carl Brown, founder of Select Interiors, reflects on the project’s significance:
“While we’ve designed many hospitality venues, creating a visitor attraction of this scale and creativity was a first for us. The result is a premium-quality fit-out we’re incredibly proud of.”
Big Bakes co-founder Adam Chaudhri also praised the collaboration:
“The Select team brought passion, energy, and professionalism to this project. Their expertise in commercial interior design was pivotal in delivering a stunning venue we’re excited to share with the city.”
Why choose Select Interiors
Select Interiors is a trusted name in interior commercial design in Manchester, specialising in bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s vision. Our approach combines creativity, technical precision, and a deep understanding of functionality. The Big Bakes Manchester is a prime example of our ability to create spaces that captivate and inspire.
As The Big Bakes plans to expand nationally with 8-10 more venues, we are proud to be their partner in designing memorable, functional spaces. Whether it’s a hospitality venue, office, or retail environment, our expertise ensures exceptional results every time.
Visit The Big Bakes Manchester
Conveniently located near Salford Central Station, The Big Bakes Manchester offers a one-of-a-kind baking experience. Perfect for seasoned bakers and beginners alike, this venue invites you to unleash your creativity and enjoy a truly interactive activity.
Partner with Select Interiors for your next interior commercial design project
Ready to bring your commercial space to life? Explore our portfolio to see how Select Interiors can transform your vision into reality. Contact us today to discuss your next interior commercial design project in Manchester or across the UK.
