A COUPLE is looking to turn an old dairy into a design hub and store for their creative dreams.

Basil and Dasha McFarland have earmarked the former 50 Cycles premises, in Church Street for a tile shop and design and architectural co-working studio.

Work is now ongoing to convert the 3,200 square foot former creamery into a place where they can showcase ceramic and porcelain tiles, along with wall coverings, from some of the world's leading lights.

The McFarlands are hoping to secure some UK-exclusive premiums ranges, as well as extra-large format tiles, which are often not available on the high street, for Tile By Tile.

An open-plan top floor is envisaged by the couple, so they can offer a high-specification research and presentation space for architects and designers.

The fledgling company is already the sole distributor in the UK and Ireland for the intricately-designed Kerama Marazzi Tiles offering.

Their plans cover the opportunity for presentation and meeting tables, with high speed internet and access to innovative design materials

They are looking to hire the well-lit space for private or co-working use on long or short-term arrangements.

Dasha said: "There are a lot of quite repetitive designs on the UK market and as we have been working in the industry for several years.

"We know the demand for unique wall covering products - from both professionals and end users.

"Altrincham is the perfect place for us to launch. We live here and will be located alongside other high-end interior retailers and design and architecture businesses, as well as being close to Manchester city centre."

Their next-door neighbours on Church Street include Tom Howley and Martin Moore, both luxury kitchen designers.

Basil added: "We are not just offering tiles - for example, we will also be offering waterproof customisable Italian wallpaper, resins, decorative concrete coverings and supporting products such as adhesives, grouts and sealers.

"We are looking to tap into the growing demand for uniquely personal home and commercial spaces, while also offering a great working space for the vast number of independent designers and architects in the area."

Before now, the ambitious couple has already spent six months personally refurbishing the early Victorian building.

They hope to officially open and start running their operation in August and are also currently fashioning their own website, to complement their high street presence.