A greener roof, rebuilt for the future
The Kitchen restaurant roof refurbishment complete!
The Kitchen Restaurant officially reopened this May, following a major roof refurbishment project carried out between late November 2025 and May 2026.
This was no ordinary repair. The project represented a significant investment in the future of the restaurant, involving complex structural roof works to address deterioration first identified after roof leaks in January 2025. Originally constructed in 2002 with a distinctive sedum roof, much of the existing roof structure has now been carefully replaced and strengthened; ensuring the building is protected, resilient, and fit for many years to come. The repairs were funded by DEFRA (the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs).
Delivering this project was a considerable logistical achievement. To ensure visitors could continue to enjoy indoor dining throughout the works, experiencing minimal disruption and inconvenience, a large temporary marquee restaurant was installed on the Downs. This ideal solution meant guests still experienced a warm welcome, a full menu, and a comfortable place to dine despite the scale of construction taking place at The Kitchen.
A key highlight of the refurbishment was the restoration of the green sedum roof. This is an important feature that not only enhances the building aesthetically, but also plays a vital role in sustainability and environmental responsibility.
A greener roof, rebuilt for the future
The renewed sedum roof continues to deliver a wide range of environmental benefits:
- 15 different varieties of sedum from a Plant Healthy nursery based in Norfolk are now settling in on the roof, including plants carefully salvaged and replanted from the original roof. Sedum conservation in action.
- Each square metre can absorb up to 30 litres of water, helping to manage heavy rainfall while also capturing carbon dioxide and improving air quality.
- Supporting biodiversity, the roof provides a valuable habitat and food source for bees, butterflies, and other insects, whilst from a visual angle also blending seamlessly into Westonbirt’s Grade I heritage landscape.
In addition to these environmental gains, the refurbished roof incorporates a new opening rooflight and insulation to match current building standards. Together, these enhancements create a more comfortable space year-round as the Kitchen Restaurant will be cooler during the summer months and warm and welcoming in winter.
A space to enjoy once again
With the work now complete, The Kitchen Restaurant is up and running again. Guests can enjoy a relaxed indoor dining experience with delicious seasonal menus served throughout the year.
Outside, additional covered seating provides a welcoming space for dog owners, along with convenient areas for mobility scooter parking; ensuring accessibility and comfort for all.
This project was more than a just repair. It’s something of a roof transformation, whilst maintaining its aesthetic appearance and ‘future-proofing’ The Kitchen restaurant, and hopefully improving the indoor dining experience for everyone.
The team at Westonbirt thanks Fosters, our catering partner, for working tirelessly to provide a continued and high quality restaurant experience during this time.
