Nottingham firm designs new bar concept for Liverpool One

Grosvenor Europe has announced that The Alchemist, the Palatine Private Equity–backed Simon Potts-led group, is to launch a brand new concept bar, Aether, in Liverpool One this September.

Aether will be next to The Club House on Chavasse Park.

The 1,600 sq ft bar is a nod to the brand’s original roots, with a focus on cocktails and live music.

Created by Nottingham-based interior design agency, Macaulay Sinclair, Aether will capture the glamour of a bygone era and feature 21 cocktails focusing on the elements.

Providing 40 covers inside, Aether will also include an immersive performance area for artists from neo-soul, jazz and hip-hop genres.

Additional alfresco seating for 80 covers will overlook Chavasse Park.

Commenting on choosing Liverpool One to launch Aether, Simon Potts said: “The Alchemist is a great brand that continues to grow at a sensible rate – there’s a really exciting pipeline of openings for the core business and a clear strategy for expansion.

“We’re an entrepreneurial team at heart, though, and when the opportunity to do something a little different presented itself we wanted to take that challenge on.

“We look forward to introducing the new concept later this year.”

Alison Clegg, director, asset management, Grosvenor Europe, added: “Aether is very exciting and will add something quite special to Liverpool One’s thriving evening economy.

“We have a strong track record of working closely with leading brands to create the ideal space within Liverpool One. Our collaboration with The Alchemist team is set to become a new hotspot in the city.”

The announcement coincides with Food Glorious Food, a month-long celebration of food at Liverpool One, which began on June 14 and will run until July 15.

As a key feature of the campaign, Liverpool One hosted a two-day festival, Feast Weekend, on June 30 and July 1.

More than 20 of Liverpool One’s restaurants, bars and independent operators provided visitors with the best global cuisine available over the two days.

Adding to the experience were live bands and DJs, with nearly 200,000 visitors enjoying Feast Weekend.

Cushman & Wakefield and Metis Real Estate Advisors acted for Liverpool One.

Westmark Estates and Harlow Property Consultants both represented Aether, on behalf of The Alchemist.