Working from an office at home seems ideal at first, but 11 years later with a growing business (and team!), you might need to look for an office! So at eatsleepdoodle we began the hunt for a space to become our new HQ.

With a good idea of what we were looking for, we set out with a plan, and Salisbury had a lot to offer; this medieval city has no shortage of beautiful buildings! We were searching for an inspirational space, something that was different – more individual than a standard office building. After a while of searching, fate struck in the form of our newest team member, Jess! After mentioning to Jess that we were looking for a new space, she told us that her boyfriend’s company had some office space to spare! So, off we went to visit a beautiful 17^th Century house, home to several local businesses. It was a slam dunk – we instantly fell in love with the high ceilings, period details and spectacular view of Salisbury Cathedral across ancient rooftops.

Hidden from the high street, reached via a narrow carriageway, is Close Gate House - a beautiful Grade II listed building. Built in 1694, this picturesque house sits close to the North Gate (also known as the Porter’s Lodge) into The Close– overlooking the spire.  

Our main office space is the historic drawing room and has bright sash windows with window seats, beautiful 17^th Century panelling and a fantastic period feature fireplace. With a marble hearth and dado cornice cove enriched with anthemion motifs. Above it sits a large mirror framed with fruit carvings beneath a broken pediment with an urn and carved garlands. The Elegant 18^th Century rococo work ceiling has decorative panels with garlands, swags and shells. 

before & after

There was no doubt that this was the place for us. Then, the moving began! It was an emotional time, moving out of the space that held so many memories and saw new ideas and projects come to life. We moved over a few days, making sure to have everything set up and sorted ready for the official move-in date. Each member of the eatsleepdoodle team got involved, lifting, tidying, driving - filled with anticipation for this new adventure. With lots of trips and many helping hands we packed up the office and moved into Close Gate House.

Next, came the unpacking – exciting, but a long and messy process! Soon, the desks started to come together – pushed together in the centre of the room, for one big friendly working hub. Wifi needed to be sorted (which was, of course, the most difficult thing to organise!), samples unpacked, printers needed plugging in, the floor needed a vacuum and we needed copious cups of tea! Next, up went banners and displays – the space was coming together and beginning to feel like eatsleepdoodle HQ!

After a lot of work, and a long day, we were done. Stock sorted, designs displayed, and we were ready to put our feet up! We celebrated with a toast to our new office and all relaxed after a job well done. We are so happy to be in our new office, all together and working away in such an amazing place!