Page:The Coffee Publichouse.djvu/20

14 To be on the best side of a street is a point of greater importance than may be supposed. It is worth some sacrifice to secure, if possible, a corner house, with entrances from two or more streets, and an old publichouse has some obvious advantages. Its familiar aspect may attract tipplers who may be not indisposed to turn over a new leaf provided the break in their habits and associations be not too violent. At the same time, it is to be borne in mind that more table accommodation is required in a Coffee Publichouse than in a beerhouse, or gin palace. The larger the ground floor, therefore, other things being equal, the more suitable the premises.

Roomy and well-ventilated kitchens are of the utmost importance, in order that the health of the servants may be preserved, and that good work may be done. In a refreshment house, where the hours of work are long, where cooking is constantly going on, and where steam and unwholesome gases are continually generated, the proper ventilation of kitchen and scullery demands special attention, and there should also be plenty of daylight to ensure the proper cooking and perfect cleanliness of the provisions and utensils.

Convenient upper floors are desirable for the accommodation of the manager and assistants, and may be utilised also for letting lodgings, or as additional coffee-room space, according to circumstances (see page 19).

Where it is not proposed to purchase premises, a lease should be obtained, and, if for a short term, with the option of renewal.

DECORATIONS, FITTINGS, AND FURNITURE.

The Coffee Publichouse should be rendered attractive externally and internally, and the accommodation offered should be good and comfortable in every respect. The rooms should be airy and pleasant—full of light and colour. The impression sometimes entertained that a house may be