Inception Group to open power station-themed bar
Inception Group, which is behind brands including Mr Fogg’s and Cahoots, will open the immersive experience called Control Room B that takes inspiration from the power station’s architecture and history. It will feature mid-century furniture and glassware, and there will also be a centrepiece bar, which is a turbine-inspired radial sculpture – paying homage to the character and form of Battersea Power Station’s electric history.
Inception Group co-founder Charlie Gilkes said: “We couldn’t be more excited to be opening a bar within the most iconic part of one of London’s most important landmarks. Having lived in Battersea my whole life, it’s amazing to be playing a part in the most exciting redevelopment project for many years and to be bringing this space back to life.”
Perfect fit
Battersea Power Station Development Company head of leasing Sam Cotton added: “Inception Group’s ever-evolving immersive experience offering made them the perfect fit for a unique venue like Control Room B. In just a few weeks’ time, members of the public will be able to get up close to the control room’s original dials and controls while sipping on a coffee or cocktail and soaking up the history. It’s going to be a very special moment and one I’m very much looking forward to.”
NEW! CONTROL ROOM B ️ Powering up on Friday 14th October!⚡
— Inception Group (@Inception_Group) September 8, 2022
We are extremely excited to announce our latest addition to Inception Group - a brand new all-day bar experience, opening in the hub of the iconic Grade II* listed Battersea Power Station. pic.twitter.com/GiN1qCJGdz
The opening will also allow members of the public to get up close to the control room for the first time ever. The site was used to distribute of a fifth of London’s electricity when the station was operational.
Working in tandem with Control Room A, Control Room B managed the distribution of power generated by the power station’s turbines.
Unrivalled bar concept
Opening out onto Turbine Hall B, Control Room B was built after World War II and is said to be more pared back and brutalist in design. With faience tiling throughout, the control room retains its stainless-steel control panels arranged in an arc. The original control room fittings, desks and switchgear complex are defining features of the space and have been fully restored as part of the wider regeneration of Battersea Power Station.
Battersea Power Station said: “This one-of-a-kind setting will make for a truly unrivalled bar concept. Offering an all-day experience, Control Room B will open at 10am serving coffee, tea and pastries. Staff donning utilitarian boiler suits in a nod to the power station’s employees back in the 1950s, will always be ready to shake up and serve a selection of innovative cocktails. Each drink will be influenced by the power station and the 1950s control room through vessels and ingredients used.”
