A well-known Lichfield cocktail bar is set to begin a new chapter after unveiling plans for a major refurbishment and rebrand.
Le Rêve, which has operated from 26 Bird Street for the past 13 years, will reopen as The Duchess of Lichfield on Friday, 13 November, following a £50,000 investment by owners Sophie and Shaun Oceans.
The independent venue is undergoing a complete transformation, with a new interior design, expanded drinks offering and a range of entertainment aimed at creating what the owners describe as “Lichfield’s social house for grown-ups.”
The refurbishment includes a heritage green colour scheme, walnut finishes, antique brass features and new seating, while respecting the character of the Grade II-listed building.
Sophie said: “After 13 years, we felt it was time for the business to evolve. The Duchess isn’t about leaving Le Rêve behind. It’s about building on everything it became.
“We’ve seen how people’s social habits have changed over the years and wanted to create somewhere that offers more than just a big night out.
“Our vision is to create Lichfield’s social house for grown-ups, somewhere people can enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends just as much as a lively Saturday evening.”
While cocktails will remain at the heart of the business with a brand-new menu, customers can also expect a wider beer and ale selection, more live music, DJs and social games including darts, cards and cornhole.
Friday evenings will take on a more relaxed atmosphere, while Saturday nights will retain the lively feel customers have come to associate with the venue.
The Duchess will also continue as an adults-only venue, with well-behaved dogs welcome during daytime and early evening hours.
The new name was chosen to reflect Lichfield’s heritage and personality, accompanied by the tagline “Royal Taste. Slightly Scandalous.”
Sophie added: “We’re making a significant investment of more than £50,000 into both the interior and improvements to our historic premises.
“As an independent business, it’s a substantial undertaking for us, and we’re focusing on creating something that we hope will serve Lichfield for many more years.
“We haven’t spent 13 years building Le Rêve just to abandon everything people love about it. We wanted to take what we’ve created and give it a new lease of life.
“The Duchess is still us, still independent and still very much part of Lichfield, just with a little more personality, a few more reasons to visit and a rather grander title.”
