12 DECEMBER 2025
An innovative retrofit of an underutilised space on the roof of a multistorey city centre car park to create a versatile hospitality venue has been named the best conversion, redesign or repurpose at the prestigious Northern Design Awards 2025.
Rooftop Social Club, situated on the top two floors of the Pepper Street multistorey car park in Chester city centre, was developed by Grosvenor and award-winning hospitality operator iKO Projects. The unique amenity earned praise from the judges who described the scheme as “a genius transformation of an unused space in the heart of a historic city” adding that the project represented “repurposing as a creative force for good”.
The Northern Design Awards, which were held at Manchester Cathedral last month, showcase the very best in design across the north of England, bringing together the region’s most talented architects, designers, makers, and brands.
Rooftop Social Club proves that great design and hospitality can transform even the most unlikely spaces.
Ian Gordon, founder of iKO Projects, said: “To be shortlisted at this year’s Northern Design Awards was one thing but to actually win an award was something else entirely. Rooftop Social Club proves that great design and hospitality can transform even the most unlikely spaces.
“A huge thank you to everyone involved in taking the project from idea to an award-winning space, this truly was a team effort. It took two and a half years to get it through planning, licensing and build it but I’m so pleased that we persevered. The award landed the same week that we celebrated a year of the Rooftop making it a very happy birthday indeed.”
Working alongside renowned international architects Chapman Taylor, Grosvenor and iKO Projects, reimagined the top two levels of Chester's Pepper Street multistorey car park into the 300-capacity venue, providing a unique location in the region, enhancing the city’s offering and contributing to its economic vibrancy.
The fully accessible and family friendly venue features four permanent kitchens and a full-service bar, housed in custom-built units. The space also benefits from a fully retractable roof, along with heated cabanas and chalets, allowing the venue to be enjoyed year-round.