Transforming A Traditional Ballroom Into A One-Of-A-Kind Indoor English Herb Garden Dining Experience

Brand Experiences

Private Michelin Star Dining

Creating Space Worth Celebrating

Inspired by the English countryside, OuterEdit was invited to represent the timeless heart and taste of Gidleigh Park and the creations of two Michelin-starred chef, Michael Wignall through the transformation of a standard ballroom to resonate with the chef's personality, that of all invited guests, and to be a tangible contribution towards a memorable dining experience worth celebrating.

With less than a month to conceptualise, design and transform the place into a one-of-a-kind indoor English herb garden dining experience, we had our work cut out for us.

Drawing Upon Observations
And Insights To Establish Authenticity

In a bid to understand and establish authentic links to the space Chef Wignall draws his inspiration from, we studied the decor, colours, textures, and environment of his restaurant closely. This included his table settings under natural light, and how the plating of each dish appears to resemble a mini-garden that you could walk though and get lost in.

From the grass laid across the ballroom floor to the plants used, each element was carefully considered. Other than European wildflowers, we also picked herbs used in the chef’s dishes for the centrepiece and table runners. Each herb and flower effused scents of an European garden, adding on to the overall sensorial experience.

Michael Wignall at Gidleigh Park.
Photo Source: Michael Wignall

Gidleigh Park, Chagford, Devon.
Photo Source: The Devon Foodie

Chef Wignall's style of plating that look like magical gardens waiting to be explored.
Photo Sources: Michael Wignall

The Grand Reveal

To add some flair to the evening, all curtains and doors to the ballroom were closed as guests were arriving. Once dinner was about to commence, the doors were opened and the curtains were raised, revealing the grand English countryside experience by cozy candlelight, and indoor comfort.