THE TRADESMAN'S ARMS SOUTH HAMS

Restoring Heart & Heritage To A Beloved Village Inn

The Tradesmans Arms in Stokenham holds a special place within the local community. Following the devastating fire that led to the loss of the original building, the rebuild of this much-loved inn became about far more than simply restoring a property — it became about rebuilding a gathering place, preserving local history, and helping bring a community back together.

We were honoured to work alongside the owners and Cathy on the interiors for the restaurant, and three ensuite guest rooms, supporting the project wherever we could throughout the journey. This was very much a collaborative, “holding hand” style project — guiding decisions carefully, helping shape the interiors sympathetically, and ensuring the finished spaces felt authentic to the spirit of the original Tradesmans Arms.

A Traditional Inn Reimagined

From the outset, it was important that the interiors felt timeless and familiar. While the building itself had been rebuilt, we wanted guests and locals alike to walk through the doors and instantly feel the warmth, comfort, and character that define a traditional Devon village inn.

The design approach focused on creating interiors that felt relaxed, welcoming, and deeply connected to the surrounding countryside and coastline. Natural textures, muted heritage tones, warm timber finishes, traditional panelling, soft layered fabrics, and carefully chosen lighting all played a part in shaping the atmosphere throughout the property.

Rather than over-designing the spaces, we allowed simplicity, comfort, and craftsmanship to lead the way.

Designing With Sensitivity & Community In Mind

Projects like this carry emotional weight. Many people had a personal connection to the original pub, and preserving that sense of familiarity was incredibly important. Our role became less about imposing a particular style and more about helping guide the interiors in a way that felt respectful to both the building’s history and the community around it.

Throughout the restaurant and lounge spaces, intimate seating areas were created, warm ambient lighting, and layered textures that encourage guests to settle in comfortably — whether stopping for a quiet drink, a family meal, or a weekend stay. The result feels traditional without being dated; refined whilst still retaining the relaxed charm expected from a countryside inn.

Three Ensuite Rooms Designed For Comfort & Calm

Alongside the restaurant interiors, we designed three ensuite guest rooms, each created to feel peaceful, understated, and welcoming.

Exposed beams, soft neutral palettes, heritage-inspired colour tones, and tactile fabrics work together to create calm and restful spaces that complement the architecture of the building. Subtle coastal influences inspired by the South Hams landscape can be seen throughout the rooms, from muted sage greens and soft blues to warm terracotta accents and natural woven textures.

Every room was designed with comfort and longevity in mind — somewhere guests could truly relax after a day exploring the surrounding coastline and countryside.

Balancing Old & New

One of the most rewarding parts of this project was finding the balance between traditional character and modern hospitality. Although newly rebuilt, the interiors needed to feel as though they had always belonged there. Architectural details, finishes, furnishings, and styling choices were all selected to create a sense of permanence and authenticity throughout the inn.

By layering classic materials with contemporary comfort, we were able to create spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-led.

More Than Just A Design Project

The Tradesmans Arms was never simply about interiors. It was about people, resilience, and helping restore an important part of village life.

Being able to support the project and contribute to the rebuilding of such a valued local business was incredibly meaningful for us. Seeing the inn welcoming guests once again — full of warmth, conversation, and atmosphere — made the journey all the more special.

Looking To Restore Or Refresh A Hospitality Space?

Whether you’re renovating a countryside inn, redesigning guest accommodation, or restoring a historic hospitality property, we create interiors that feel authentic, welcoming, and built to last.

You can find our more about our Bespoke Interior Services here