Located on The Shore in Leith, The Keelson was conceived as a contemporary neighbourhood public house that celebrates the area's maritime heritage without relying on nostalgia or themed decoration. The ambition was to create a venue that feels as though it has always belonged on the waterfront; familiar, welcoming and quietly connected to the stories of Leith's working docks and generations of sailors, merchants and local communities.

Working across concept development and interior design, the project drew inspiration from the craftsmanship and understated character of traditional maritime interiors. Rather than recreating a historic pub, the design interprets nautical references in a contemporary way, layering them naturally throughout the experience.

Brass detailing, rich timber panelling, deep leather banquettes, framed knot studies, vintage navigation artefacts and carefully selected memorabilia combine to create an environment that feels authentic without becoming theatrical.The spatial design focused on creating a genuine local where people feel equally comfortable dropping in for a quick pint, settling in for dinner or spending an entire evening with friends. Seating arrangements create a variety of experiences, from intimate booths to more sociable tables, allowing the atmosphere to evolve naturally throughout the day while maintaining a consistent sense of warmth and familiarity.

Lighting plays an important role in shaping the emotional character of the venue. Decorative picture lights highlight moments of storytelling throughout the space, while softer ambient lighting creates depth across the timber panelling and leather seating. The contrast between warm interior lighting and views across The Shore reinforces the feeling of shelter and comfort that has long defined traditional waterfront pubs. From antique maritime instruments and framed ship illustrations to bespoke joinery and carefully curated decorative objects, the interior rewards curiosity without overwhelming the everyday function of the pub.

Operationally, the layout was designed to support efficient service while preserving the relaxed pace associated with a traditional public house. Clear sightlines, intuitive circulation and carefully considered furniture layouts enable staff to work efficiently while allowing guests to settle naturally into the space.

Rather than separating atmosphere from operation, the design brings them together so that the environment performs as well on a busy Friday evening as it does during a quieter weekday lunch.

The result is a hospitality environment that feels rooted in Leith's identity while remaining timeless in execution. By balancing storytelling, material honesty and operational thinking, The Keelson demonstrates how contemporary hospitality design can create places that feel instantly familiar, emotionally engaging and built to become part of the community for years to come.