SoBo Beach
A Vibrant Bar and Cafe on Southbourne Promenade
Located on the edge of Southbourne Beach, SoBo Beach is a bold and energetic reinterpretation of the traditional seaside concession. Designed by DMW in collaboration with the client, this dynamic scheme merges coastal leisure with an innovative architectural approach, bringing together a series of repurposed shipping containers, a double-decker bus, and a tiki bar to create an inviting social space.
Project Director: Ryan Martin
Project Lead: Lotta Woodland, Adam Radwanski
Planning Consultant: CL Planning
Status: Complete
Occupying the former site of Bistro on the Beach, the development replaced the demolished structure with a lively, multi-layered venue that has quickly become an integral part of the local beachside culture. Granted planning permission to remain until 2026, SOBO Beach has cemented itself as a community hub, drawing in sea swimmers, dog walkers, and beachgoers alike.
This prime location allows the venue to function as both a destination and a wayfinding landmark, with the placement of a retro VW Beetle on top of a shipping container, serving as an eye-catching identifier along the promenade.
Architecturally, SOBO Beach is defined by its modular, industrial aesthetic. The juxtaposition of raw metal with timber decking, exposed steel with tropical greenery, and the playful addition of a repurposed double-decker bus create a layered and engaging environment. The use of prefabricated elements ensured efficiency in construction while allowing for future flexibility and potential relocation.
The material palette of SOBO Beach prioritises durability, sustainability, and a visually striking composition. The repurposed shipping containers provide a low-carbon alternative to traditional construction, reducing waste and extending the life cycle of the reclaimed containers. Locally sourced timber was used for decking and seating areas, reinforcing the coastal aesthetic while maintaining resilience against the harsh seaside climate. The incorporation of upcycled elements, including the vintage VW Beetle, further enhanced the project’s sustainable ethos.
Beyond its creative reuse of materials, SOBO Beach integrates sustainability through passive design strategies, including natural ventilation and strategic shading. The project actively contributes to the Southbourne community, providing a welcoming environment for locals and visitors. By fostering social interaction and enhancing the beachfront’s cultural vibrancy, SoBo Beach represents a sustainable, community-driven development in a coastal setting.