Alterations and Additions, Jenkinson’s Café, Talbot Square, Blackpool

MODERN SHOP - Visitors and residents alike will be interested in the extensive alterations and improvements which have been made to Jenkinson's Ltd Cafe, in Talbot-square, extensions and modernisations which reflect the greatest possible credit on the general contractors —Messrs. Atherton Brothers, of Blackpool, and the architects, Messrs. R. B. Mather, Sons and Wilding, of Birley-street, Blackpool. One of the main objects in the minds of the directors of this company in deciding upon the alterations was to modernise the premises generally, and in view of the increased popularity of the Strand as a shopping centre to add their quota to the development of that area. In order to accomplish this a large portion of the old buildings adjoining the west boundary of the premises was demolished and in place thereof a new three-storey building has been erected, having a frontage of over 36 feet towards the now important and much-used thoroughfare, The Strand.

The lower storey comprises a modern shop complete with all the latest fixtures and fittings required for the high-class catering, confectionery, sweets and wine business carried on by this company. The shop front is carried out with bronze metal frames, transoms, etc., with polished black granite plinth with large areas of polished plate glass windows for display purposes. The fascias and pilasters to the shop front are carried out om cream vitrolite, forming into panels with bronze metal framing. The interior fittings to the shop are executed in walnut, french polished to egg-shell finish. 

Branching off the above-mentioned shop is a well-lighted lounge, in which light refreshments are served, and it also forms access to the front or main portion of the company's premises, thus in stormy or inclement weather patrons may obtain access to any portion of the building from The Strand. The upper storeys of this new building are, used for administrative, purposes and for new retiring and cloakrooms for both sexes, these being designed upon the latest hygienic principles, with Terrazzo floors and tiled walls in pleasing designs. In addition, various improvements have been made to other portions of the premises, one. being the extension of what is known as the Derby Room, situate on the first floor, which has been almost doubled in area and a new hardwood floor laid down and polished suitable for dancing purposes. On the second floor four new dining rooms of varying sizes have been made, so that large or small parties can be accommodated in rooms to suit the members concerned. The scheme of decoration throughout have been carried out in an artistic and pleasing manner, and rubber flooring has been used throughout the building. Modern furnishings, carpeting and lighting have been included in the general scheme, and executed in such a manner as to be in keeping with the high tone of this well-known and popular establishment. [Blackpool Times 28 July 1933 page 20]

Reference    Blackpool Times 28 July 1933 page 20