Set beneath the slopes of Cadair Idris and overlooking the Mawddach Estuary, Penmaenuchaf has completed a four-year transformation, reimagining the Welsh country house with a redesigned restaurant.
Shaped by the Welsh concept of ‘hiraeth’ – an emotional connection to place and a longing for somewhere that feels like home – the refurbishment was created in collaboration with interior designer Nicola Harding.
Afon Restaurant, named after the Welsh word for river, takes inspiration from the Afon Mawddach and the estuary below the house. A tented ceiling in deep green-blue fabric reflects the changing colours of water, light and landscape, creating a softer, more intimate atmosphere that complements Head Chef Dan Andrée’s seasonal approach to cooking. Welsh produce and the flavours of North Wales remain at the heart of the dining experience.
Local craftsmanship has played a central role in the whole refurbishment, with makers, suppliers and tradespeople from across North Wales involved throughout the project. Wherever possible, the team sourced locally for both skills and inspiration, working with a network of Welsh makers including those connected through Makers Guild Wales, alongside weaver Margaret Hansford, rug maker Kathy Williams and Anvil Pottery.
Harding comments: “What made Penmaenuchaf so compelling was that it already had soul. There was never any desire to reinvent it. The most successful projects are often those where you listen carefully to what is already there, and this house had a remarkable sense of place from the beginning. Our aim was simply to deepen that connection and create interiors that feel entirely at home within the landscape.”
