Dry Dock

Dry Dock Bar in Leeds is one of the city’s most distinctive venues, a converted ship permanently moored by the roadside. Its unique character makes it a popular spot for students, locals and visitors. However, the uneven nature of the ship’s structure created long-standing safety concerns outside, especially during busy periods and unpredictable weather. The team needed an outdoor solution that made the area safer, more comfortable and usable all year round.

The Challenge for Dry Dock

Working with a converted ship is always going to be a little different. Dry Dock Bar’s distinctive shape, uneven surfaces and existing features, such as skylights, perimeter lighting and a waterproof roof, meant that any outdoor solution needed to be carefully planned and completely tailored. The goal was to create a comfortable, welcoming space that worked with the boat’s character rather than against it.

Our Solution

Having previously worked with Dry Dock Bar, supplying benches and furniture, we already had a good understanding of the challenges that come with their unique ship-shaped structure. That experience meant we could confidently recommend:

• An awning positioned on the roof of the boat

• A bespoke framework designed to avoid the existing skylights

• A custom projection to work around the festoon perimeter lighting

• Close collaboration with a brilliant architect to bring the plans to life

• A reinforced protective membrane to ensure the concrete cast didn’t affect the structure or compromise the waterproof roof

The Result

As a result, the transformation gives Dry Dock Bar a safer and far more functional outdoor area that boosts the customer experience while keeping the venue’s unique charm. Moreover, guests enjoy drinks outside in comfort, whatever the weather, and the team works more efficiently thanks to increased capacity and a smoother service flow. Ultimately, this project shows how even the most unconventional locations can become standout spaces with thoughtful, flexible outdoor solutions.

Ready to improve your outdoor space, just like Dry Dock?

Whether your venue comes with layout challenges or unusual surroundings, we’d be happy to help you find a solution that works.

If you’d like to explore possibilities for your site, take a look at more of our completed projects or get in touch to discuss your ideas. Together, we can create an outdoor space your customers will love all year round.

Email: sales@aelsolutions.com

Also, discover more about Dry Dock here!