The Killers: A Historic Night at Our Office!

Optima’s building, The Duke of Wellington, is currently enjoying renewed attention thanks to the 20th anniversary of Hot Fuss, the debut album by The Killers that catapulted them to global fame. Just 6 months prior to its release The Killers played their very first UK gig upstairs at the Duke’s Bivouac Club. This intimate performance featured soon-to-be hits like Mr. Brightside and Somebody Told Me, tracks that have since become defining anthems of the 2000s.
 
The BBC recently came in to interview us as they are commemorating the band’s milestone anniversary with articles and radio shows that spotlight their early days and the significance of their Lincoln gig in what is now Optima’s design studio. For us, it’s a thrilling opportunity to connect with stories of the building’s heritage.

A Creative Energy

The Duke of Wellington has long been a cornerstone of Lincoln’s cultural and creative scene. From its art deco architecture to its storied past as a soul club, MOD hub, and music venue, the building has always been a gathering place for the community. The upstairs Bivouac Club became a haven for live music enthusiasts, hosting iconic bands such as British Sea Power, Pulp, Kaiser Chiefs (then known as Parva), and Biffy Clyro. But none of those nights seem to have garnered quite as much ongoing attention as the foggy Lincoln evening when The Killers played here.
 
Those lucky enough to attend that night recall the band’s electrifying presence in the small, windowless room above the pub. In the BBC article published this week, Steve Hawkins, who ran the Bivouac Club at the time, vividly remembers their soundcheck. “Within three seconds, I knew they were going to be absolutely massive,” he said. Hot Fuss was released just six months later, launching the band to superstardom.
 

Breathing New Life into History

Optima Design purchased the Duke of Wellington in 2019, at which time it was derelict, in a sad state of repair, and due to be demolished to make way for a new car park. We then embarked on a 26-week renovation project with the goal of respecting and preserving the building’s original character while transforming it into a modern office space. Key features, such as the main bar, were retained and repurposed - the bar now serves as the reception desk, a nod to the building’s roots as a community pub. 

Our design team worked sympathetically with the building’s art deco heritage, blending its iconic features with modern functionality. The Duke of Wellington has always been a creative hub, and we’re proud to carry on its legacy as a space that fosters creativity and connection.

Inspiration in the Walls

For Optima’s team, the Duke’s creative energy is palpable. Knowing that legends like Mick Jagger once sat downstairs, or that these big bands played in what is now our design studio, is a constant reminder of the legacy of the building as a hub for creative expression. Some of Optima's staff have even played at the venue in fledgling bands in the past. We have tried to keep that legacy alive by featuring nods to the building's past with our take on gig posters, record artwork of some of our favourite albums in the cloakroom (which used to be the music kit storeroom) and wallpaper featuring some of the historic photos we have found.
 

Sharing Stories and Memories

The Duke of Wellington’s past resonates with lots of the visitors to the Optima offices. Clients often share fond memories of nights spent at the Bivouac Club or tales of legendary performances. They recall the sticky floors, camouflage netting and black walls that gave the upstairs venue its unique character. Others remember having their first pint at the bar, and some have even pointed out the corner in which they were sick after a ‘really good night out’!

Do you have memories of the Duke of Wellington or the Bivouac Club? 

Whether you saw The Killers in 2003, danced to Northern Soul in the ‘60s, or simply enjoyed a pint in its heyday, we’d love to hear your stories. Below is a list of bands we know have played the Bivouac Club, but if you can add any more to our list, please get in touch! We’ve heard rumors that Paul Weller and Kings of Leon performed at the Duke, but we haven’t been able to find evidence yet - if you were there or know someone who was, we’d be thrilled to hear from you!

• The Killers: November 21, 2003, supporting British Sea Power.
• Kaiser Chiefs (then as Parva): with bassist Simon Rix recalling, "The first ever gig we did outside of Leeds was in Lincoln at the Bivouac and two people were there and one fell asleep." 
• Biffy Clyro: Performed at the venue in 2002. 
• Serafin: Performed on 16 January 2002. 
• Pulp: Played during their early years. 
• Saxon: Held a secret gig in the 1980s and another performance on October 27, 2006. 
• The Wedding Present: Performed on November 15, 2005. 
• Voodoo Glow Skulls: Played on November 14, 2005. 
• Minus the Bear: Performed on October 31, 2005. 
• The Wombats: Played on June 1, 2007. 
• Deaf Havana: Performed on July 28, 2007. 
• Tenpole Tudor: Also graced the venue's stage. 
• Chumbawumba played too.