Art , heritage and business come together at Temperance House summer launch party
Temperance House in Wraxall officially opened its doors to guests, businesses and members of the local community with a vibrant inaugural Summer Party celebrating the transformation of the historic Grade II listed building into a unique business retreat and meeting destination.
The event marked a significant milestone for the newly launched business suite, which has been created following the extensive regeneration of the former Battleaxes pub in Wraxall. Once closed and vacant since 2019, the landmark building has been sensitively restored and reimagined by StudioHIVE into a premium workspace and meeting venue set in the heart of the North Somerset countryside.
Guests enjoyed an evening of local food and refreshments while exploring the newly completed spaces and meeting the team behind the project. The celebration showcased a range of live artistic talent, reflecting the creative vision that underpins the redevelopment.
Renowned street artist Richt created a striking live graffiti wall throughout the evening, while artist Becky Milnor displayed her distinctive gold leaf artwork and continued to paint. Popular caricaturist Demonpen entertained guests with live sketches, adding a memorable and personal touch to the festivities.
The evening featured speeches from key figures involved in the site's regeneration and heritage. Jason Collard, Managing Director of StudioHIVE and the driving force behind the redevelopment, spoke about the vision for Temperance House and its role as a destination for businesses seeking inspiring and flexible meeting environments.
Jason Collard said: "Temperance House represents much more than a business venue. It's about breathing new life into an important local building and creating a place where businesses, creatives and the wider community can come together. Seeing so many people here celebrating the launch is incredibly rewarding and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the site."
Guests also heard from Dr Miranda Garrett, Property Curator at the neighbouring Tyntesfield Estate, who shared insights into the rich history of the building and its significance within the local community, highlighting the importance of preserving heritage while adapting historic spaces for modern use.
Temperance House is now open for corporate bookings and offers a collection of professionally designed meeting rooms, breakout spaces, a games room, kitchen facilities and an outdoor garden suitable for meetings, team-building activities and away days.
The venue is also home to the award-winning StudioHIVE and StudioHIVE Architects teams, whose headquarters are based there.
Further phases of the development are already underway, including six luxury boutique-style bedrooms due to open in Autumn 2026. The accommodation will provide executive stays and countryside escapes, complementing the business facilities already available.
Additional plans approved by North Somerset Council include an onsite café and new homes, further enhancing the site's role as a destination for both business and community use.
Speaking about the future of the development, Jason Collard added: "We're only partway through our plans for Temperance House. The support we've received from local businesses, partners and the community has been fantastic, and we're excited to continue developing the site into a destination that blends innovation, collaboration and heritage."
Nestled in the tranquil North Somerset countryside minutes from Bristol, Temperance House offers a distinctive setting for corporate events, combining contemporary design with the character and history of one of Wraxall's most recognisable buildings.
For more information and to enquire about bookings, visit www.temperancehouse-bristol.co.uk
