300-year-old church gets a Michelin-starred makeover

When was the last time you tucked into some dim sum in a church? We're guessing never.

All the more reason to book in a visit to Duddell’s – one of London'smost anticipated new openings.

With a soaring, eight-metre high ceiling, historic stained-glass windows, wood-panelled walls and the original altar still perfectly intact, the restaurant offers more than just a reminder of its architectural past.

(Image credit: Ed Reeve)

The 300 year old,Grade-II listedSt Thomas Church has been fabulously restored and brought to date by interior design firmMichaelis Boyd.

The geniuses at Michaelis Boyd have renovated and restoredwith aplomb, injecting Queen Anne architecture with1960s glamour and contemporary silhouettes.

(Image credit: Ed Reeve)

Enormous,brass chandeliers make the most of the soaring ceiling height. A modern, glass mezzanine floor breaks up the space while offering views of the diners below (a great spot for people watching).

The main dining space seamlessly blends the old and new; modern lighting has been cleverly arranged along the traditional wood-panelled walls – without so much as denting the woodwork – while contemporary chandeliers draw attention to the stained glass windows and original cornicing.

(Image credit: Ed Reeve)

Expect a a plush colour schemeof deep blues, dramatic teals and greys with bronze accents, with a stunning emerald tiled bar with a pink terrazzo top. Decorative brass shelving, statement lighting and modern dining chairs contrast with thevintage geometric flooring.

(Image credit: Ed Reeve)

Thenew mezzanine level lets you dine even closer to heaven, whilst offering views over the open kitchen and dining floor below through a clear glass balustrade.

Oh, and with a Michelin Star we hear the food ain't bad either. As if you needed any more reason to visit, the kitchen serves up its famedCantonese dishes, from Peking duck to lobster noodles. Hallelujah!

Lotte Brouwer

Lotte is the Digital Editor for Livingetc, and has been with the website since its launch. She has a background in online journalism and writing for SEO, with previous editor roles at Good Living, Good Housekeeping, Country & Townhouse, and BBC Good Food among others, as well as her own successful interiors blog. When she's not busy writing or tracking analytics, she's doing up houses, two of which have features in interior design magazines. She's just finished doing up her house in Wimbledon, and is eyeing up Bath for her next project.