Prize(s) Winners in Bar and Restaurant Lighting Design
Lighting Design/Product Company Focus Lighting
Lead Designers Valentina Doro
Other Designer's names Brett Andersen, Zoe Neijna, Hilary Manners, David Bull
Interior Design Company Studio Sofield
Client Scott Sartiano
Photo Credits Ryan Fischer
Completion Date June 1st, 2023
Project Location Soho, New York, NY
Entry DescriptionThis subterranean restaurant inspired by a Tuscan wine cellar exudes elegance and exclusivity. Transparent and reflective materials transform warm lighting and bolster the concept: see-and-be-seen.
Warm uplight grazing brick walls embrace guests in a flattering glow. Overhead, navy sky seeps in through industrial vaulted ceilings.
Layers of light and texture at the bar, including brick wall accents, glowing bar fascia, and illuminated liquor risers, create a beautiful composition. Private wine locker illumination puts the collections of elite guests on display.
After an onsite mockup, the designers saw the underside of the grand staircase was a crucial surface to light.
Reflections of the uplit brick walls in the mirrored columns playfully distort the room, while battery-operated lamps and accent lighting direct focus to each table.
Brighter ambient lighting created by glowing fabric pendants ensures that those seated in the VIP dining room will be well-illuminated, seen only by intrigued guests through glass and mirrors. Cool light grazes gauzy curtains, balancing warm candles and table lamps, which add intimacy for each group of diners.
Diners concealed in the private dining room glimpse each other's reflections, glowing under warm wall sconces and table accents.
Despite antiquated infrastructure and minimal budget, this historic space is now the hottest restaurant in NYC.