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Scottish building services specialist MPACT Group has added to its growing list of high-end refurbishment projects with the recent completion of stylish new dining within one of London’s most iconic event venues.

MPACT was appointed by designers, RDA, to help inject fresh life into the SSE Wembley Arena with the creation of the newly opened Empire Bar & Grill, a 200-capacity art deco concept reflecting the arena’s history. The transformation of the existing space also included the accompanying VIP Empire Lounge, with capacity for a further 50 people.

Based in Loanhead, near Edinburgh, MPACT has posted strong growth in recent years as it transforms from a local concern into a nationally-operating enterprise. Hospitality design specialist, RDA, based in Hebburn in the north-east of England, is a long-standing client of MPACT.

Completed on time and within budget, the Empire Bar & Lounge was designed to cater to today’s casual dining style, but with an elegance to reflect the building’s architecture. Originally opened in 1934 as the Empire Pool & Sports Arena, the facility re-launched as the SSE Wembley Arena in 2006.

MPACT was in charge of delivering a completely new lighting scheme encompassing controls, full site management and several specific alterations including the removal of existing fixtures, fittings and non-load bearing solid walls. The full extent of the refurbishment included extensive ceiling works, washrooms, joinery, complete furniture package, electrical and decoration, with further alterations to existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

“The aim was to bring some of the building’s history back to life through design, with the emphasis on simple yet elegant décor,” said Dean Stevens, Operations Director of MPACT. “From our viewpoint, it was inspirational to be tasked with meeting the expectations of such a prestigious venue.”

The Empire Bar & Grill is a key component in the overall customer experience at the SSE Wembley Arena, which had its busiest year on record in 2018 with more than one million visitors across 157 events. It is London’s second-largest indoor arena after The O2, with seating for 12,500 people.

“The revitalised restaurant and lounge have a striking finish to match the anticipated vision of our client, have a strong track record in delivering high-end results in the type of environment, and know how to carry out work while being sensitive to a building’s heritage”, said Dean.

With turnover on course to reach £10m this year, MPACT operates on a strong corporate social responsibility agenda. The business has also won a number of awards within the electrotechnical industry in Scotland, most recently being named 2018’s Best Large Contractor by trade body SELECT.