View looking across the cocktail bar top, with shaped 15mm glass top, and the washing machine barrel beneath

This is a very unique and special piece, which has been converted from a cast iron and wooden Victorian washing machine with integrated mangle, dating from the 1860's/1870's. When we first saw the original item, we could immediately imagine its conversion to a cocktail or drinks bar. All of the renovation work has been undertaken in a very sensitive way, to maintain the essence of the original item, whilst making it a practical drinks bar for todays' modern living. This was an extremely exciting project, and we are thrilled with the end result.

• The "Vowel" washing machines were first introduced in the 1860's - an advert showing the original range can be seen in the slideshow below
• This is a rare item to find with all the components, especially the original washing barrel, which is in such excellent condition
• The mangle rollers have been removed to make space for drinks storage above the barrel - added in reclaimed wood to match the original
• Glasses can be stored on a reclaimed wooden shelf, which has been added above the drinks storage
• We have integrated a specially cut shaped piece of 15mm glass, to add a modern and practical element to the drinks bar
• The addition of the glass enables you to look though it to see the top of the original washing barrel
• The washing barrel has been adapted, with the front removed, so that it is now a storage space for bottles or glasses
• Touches of hand manufactured brass have been added to the washing barrel to create a more special piece
• All the original gears, wheels and cogs have been renovated, treated and painted, but locked in place to prevent any movement
• The drinks bar sits on original castors, so it can be wheeled short distances on hard surfaces
• We have added an extra special element to the drinks bar, by integrating a high quality LED lighting system
• The LED lighting system was made by a specialist company in the UK, and features a handmade brass switch to dim the lights to the required brightness
• There are 6 lights in total - 2 above the glass shelf, 2 within the washing barrel, and 1 shining down on each of the sides, to highlight the original cast iron frame, cogs and wheels
• Dimensions (approx)
  • Total Height: 1500mm (150cm)
  • Total Width: 1120mm (112cm) - including the wheel which protrudes on one side
  • Width (top shelf): 1045mm (104.5cm)
  • Width (glass at the front): 895mm (89.5cm)
  • Depth: 750mm (75cm)
• Price: £4000
• Delivery - please contact us for a quotation
• Item No. xxxx