Bridges Espresso Bar was based in Riverside Square Bedford. In 2019 a lease was signed on a new shell of a unit. An innovative design for the fitout of this unit separated it from other local independent Cafes, and crucially had to be different from national chain offerings.
Through personal recommendation, Fire Response UK was commissioned to design a completely new fire alarm installation in keeping with this innovative interior design. The Fire alarm system was to be highly functional, having automatic detection in all areas, and sounder beacons also covering all areas. This was not only intended to surpass the fire alarm standards at the time, but with the presence of beacons in all areas (including toilets) also archived compliance with the Equality Act (2010) recommendations.
Fire Response (UK) was also commissioned to supply and install fire extinguishers. The brief here was again that they had to be functional, stylish and in keeping with the interior design.
Design, scope & Process
A fire risk assessor was engaged early on during the build process. This was to ensure that the level of fire protection would be appropriate for the layout and use of the building, as well as the staff and patrons.
An initial system design by Fire Response was approved based on the level of protection. Once the safety aspect of the design was achieved, the integration with the interior design had to be addressed. It is no easy task to seamlessly blend a commercial fire alarm system unobtrusively into a building.
Especially when you consider that detectors are usually glaring white, cables are bright red, and control panels are often large, unappealing boxes on the wall. All of which was in stark contrast to the interior design. A regular consultation process was instigated with the client, where many options were offered to find the best fit for the premises.
Why choose Fire Response?
As with most of our clients, this work was commissioned by personal recommendation. Our installation work had previously been witnessed, but in a completely different environment. It helped that we have a BAFE Accreditation for Fire detection, alarm design and installation, and unlike most Fire Service Companies are also audited by BSI. Therefore, the client happily accepted us based on safety first, but on faith that we could also deliver the interior design aspect.
After a few meetings showing different options and ideas, our consultations with the client bolstered their faith that we could also deliver on design.
The Result
Copper coloured extinguishers and matching brushed copper signs were chosen to match the existing copper-coloured fixtures and fittings in the public areas. More traditional red extinguishers were used in the kitchen and staff areas with additional colouring on them to differentiate their type and intended use.
The extinguisher installation was enhanced by offering extensive Fire Warden and Practical Extinguisher training to all staff.
Black detectors were chosen for use on the black ceiling. The normally obvious red fire alarm cables were well hidden on top of a black cable tray. Detectors were positioned in void areas to ensure that even the hidden areas of the building were well covered.
Beacons in the toilets were positioned towards the corners of the room, well away from light fittings and ventilation.
Magnetic door holders were employed in the staff areas to hold open Fire Doors to make it easier for staff during normal operational periods to carry food and drinks between the kitchen and dining areas. If the fire alarm is activated, these magnets release the doors, allowing them to close and keep the passive fire compartments Intact. Thus, preventing the spread of fire and smoke.
The main fire panel was chosen to be simple to use, but was flush-mounted in the wall to be less obtrusive than traditional alarms.
Sadly, Bridges Espresso Bar had to close on the 26th June 2025.
