Project Overview

DLS supplied decorative lighting for the refurbishment of St Peter’s Tavern, located on Seel Street in Liverpool.

Set within a remarkable 238 year old building, the venue occupies the former St Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, originally built in the late 18th century. Rich in heritage and architectural significance, the building has long been a landmark within Liverpool’s city centre.

In 2005, the building was transformed into the iconic Alma de Cuba — a venue well known throughout the 2000s as one of Liverpool’s most popular nightlife destinations, attracting celebrities and becoming a staple of the city’s social scene.

Today, the space has been reimagined once again as St Peter’s Tavern, blending historic grandeur with a refined, contemporary offering as a grand public house in the hospitality industry.

The Brief

The lighting scheme required a careful balance between heritage and atmosphere, with a focus on:

• • Working within the scale and volume of the former church
  • Enhancing a multi-level hospitality layout
  • Delivering a warm and inviting environment
  • Introducing impactful decorative feature lighting
  • Complementing retained architectural features

Lighting Solution

DLS supplied nearly 100 decorative light fittings as part of the overall scheme, including chandeliers, pendants, wall lights and feature pieces. The selection was carefully considered to complement the architecture, working in harmony with retained features and original structural elements.

A key feature of the project was a series of bespoke large-scale, 2 metre, two-tier chandeliers, which can be seen throughout the venue. These cast brass chandeliers were designed with multiple opal glass globes, which provide soft, diffused illumination while establishing a strong and consistent visual identity.

The repetition of these chandeliers across the space creates rhythm and cohesion, particularly when viewed from the mezzanine levels and across the open central void.

Given the size and complexity of these fittings, our team provided on-site supervision during delivery, ensuring safe handling and coordination with the installation team.

The Result

The completed project delivers a rich, atmospheric hospitality environment, where decorative lighting plays a key role in shaping the experience.

• The chandeliers provide a recognisable visual signature throughout the venue, aligning with the client's vision.
• The warm lighting enhances the historic character of the building
• The scheme works in harmony with architectural features, including the retained altar area, now repurposed as a central focal point

The result is a venue that successfully bridges over 200 years of history with modern hospitality design, creating a space that feels both authentic and contemporary.

Project Credits

Project Type: Traditional Pub / Hospitality Venue

Location: Liverpool, England

Client: 1936 Pub Company

Lighting Type: Heritage-style chandeliers, Bespoke Chandeliers, Decorative wall lights

Outcome: Cohesive, character-led lighting that complements a refurbished heritage interior