Design agency moves HQ to former pub and music venue

Lincoln-based graphic design agency Optima moved its 20 staff to a new head office in the city.

The former Duke of Wellington pub on Broadgate in Lincoln’s city centre, will become Optima’s new design headquarters from March this year, following an extensive restoration and refit.

Optima’s owners Tracy and Simon Shaw bought the building in October last year, committing to a 16-week restoration project which has included a complete interior refit whilst retaining as many original features as possible, including the main bar.

“Lincoln has been our home since we started the business 24 years ago and it feels great that we are going to base our business in such a historic and iconic building in the city,” said Simon Shaw.

The pub, which has been closed since 2011 was also a music venue, housing a Northern Soul Club in the ’60s and ’70s, the popular Bivouac Club during the ’90s and Noughties playing host to bands including Saxon, The Killers, The Kaiser Chiefs (as Parva) and Pulp.