Project Overview
ECSEC Ltd, a leading commercial fit-out contractor operating in London, proudly delivered the Chestnut Bakery Belgravia project — a high-end bakery and café located on Elizabeth Street, just minutes from Victoria Station.
This project transformed a shell unit into a fully operational artisan bakery, combining refined interior design, complex kitchen installations, and luxury finishes to create a flagship retail space for the Chestnut Bakery brand.
Our team worked closely with the client and design partners to achieve a seamless balance between functionality, aesthetics, and brand storytelling.
Scope of Works
As principal contractor, ECSEC managed the full scope of design coordination, construction, and specialist installations:
Complete strip-out and interior fit-out of the existing unit
Full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) services installation
Construction of open bakery and preparation zones for live customer interaction
Bespoke timber joinery and stone countertop fabrication
Lighting, flooring, and ceiling systems designed for energy efficiency and visual impact
External works, including shopfront glazing, branding, and terrace seating area upgrades
This comprehensive fit-out delivered a space that reflects the bakery’s core identity — craft, transparency, and community.
Design & Delivery Approach
The design concept focused on warm, natural materials and open visibility, allowing customers to connect directly with the craft of baking.
ECSEC ensured every design detail was executed to perfection through:
Precise joinery installation and finish matching
Coordination between MEP systems and aesthetic design elements
Smart acoustic and ventilation solutions to maintain comfort in a compact environment
Use of sustainable, FSC-certified materials and low-VOC paints
The result is a bright, welcoming bakery interior that embodies both artisan authenticity and modern comfort.
Project Challenges and Solutions
1. Working in a Conservation Area (Belgravia, SW1)
Tight logistical access and heritage considerations required careful planning. ECSEC implemented a bespoke delivery strategy and coordinated closely with Westminster City Council to ensure compliance and minimal disruption.
2. Compact Space Planning
Integrating full-scale bakery equipment into a small retail unit presented spatial and mechanical challenges. ECSEC worked with design consultants to re-engineer services layouts, optimising workflow without sacrificing customer space.
3. Tight Programme and Brand Launch Deadline
To meet the bakery’s public opening date, ECSEC employed fast-track procurement, detailed scheduling, and on-site multi-trade coordination, ensuring handover on time and to quality expectations.
