CUSTOMERS have been checking out a new look at a well-known Basingstoke restaurant after it was given a fashionable makeover.

The PizzaExpress restaurant at The Whitehouse, in Winchester Road, just off Brighton Hill Roundabout, recently reopened for business following a six-day refurbishment, with its interior décor paying tribute to famous Basingstoke men’s outfitter Thomas Burberry.

Artwork displayed at the restaurant is inspired by the world-renowned luxury brand’s check pattern.

The rich history and interesting heritage of Burberry is highlighted with a series of illustrative and typographic canvases displaying significant and memorable events in the Burberry timeline.

PizzaExpress PR manager Gemma Shaw said each restaurant is individually designed – often using well-known places, people or historical events from the area as the basis.

“As this particular restaurant is so popular, we thought it would benefit from a refurbishment sooner rather than later,” said Gemma.

Delighted with the Burberry theme, Gemma said: “It’s just such an iconic name. I think any restaurant that tells a local story is a lovely thing for everybody to come in and enjoy.

“We know that when people see what we have here, they will like coming back. And the team have a sense of excitement that their restaurant has been chosen for the refurbishment.

“It’s reinvigorated everybody and created quite a lively buzz. Apart from recognising the restaurant is a part of them, they will feel a greater sense it is the Basingstoke PizzaExpress.”

Restaurant manager Massimiliano Piccinni said: “We have a friendly and enthusiastic team who are looking forward to welcoming everyone to our refurbished restaurant over a delicious pizza.”

Thomas Burberry, the inventor of Gabardine weather-proof cloth, opened his first shop in 1856, in Winchester Street, when he was just 21.

In 1914, Burberry was commissioned by the War Office to adapt its officer’s coat, resulting in the trench coat. The iconic Burberry check was created in the 1920s and was used as a lining in its coats.

The pizza and pasta restaurant chain, famous for bringing pizza to the UK back in the 1960s, has been dishing up hand-made pizzas at The Whitehouse since 1989.

The company also has a restaurant in Festival Square, at Festival Place, and is part of Gondola Holdings, whose stable includes ASK and Zizzi.