Prize(s) Winners in Bar and Restaurant Lighting Design
Lighting Design/Product Company L'Observatoire International
Lead Designers Hervé Descottes
Other Designer's names Leah Xandora, Billy Wong, Iam Chen, Carrie Chang
Architecture Company Allied Works Architects
Client Make it Nice
Photo Credits Jason Varney
Other Credits Suppliers: Lucifer, LF Illumination, Formalighting, Jesco, Carsten Hoeller, BG Robinson
Completion Date October 10, 2024
Project Location New York City, NY, USA
Entry DescriptionTucked inside Eleven Madison Park, Clemente Bar is an intimate, immersive space shaped through a creative exchange between Chef Daniel Humm and artist Francesco Clemente. The lighting design responds to the architecture of Brad Cloepfil with discretion and depth, using light to heighten material textures and emotional resonance.
The bar’s atmosphere is built from a layered lighting approach in response to textures and the rich range of materials. A palette of warm color temperatures—from 2000K to 2400K—creates subtle tonal differences between seating zones, walls, and – most importantly, art. Murals at the scale of walls illuminate the room as lit pieces themselves. Lighting is integrated into hidden coves and through curated fixtures. While art glows with a consistent, soft presence, miniature projectors are positioned to bring out lifts in tone and texture; accentuating brushwork and gilded surfaces, while pockets of seating are accented so as to create a truly intimate ambience.
Throughout the spaces art is not only illuminated by lit; with custom sconces by Carsten Höller and table fixtures by B.G. Robinson creating a truly unique and layered immersion in art and light.
The lighting for Clemente is crafted to enhance intimacy, emphasize tactility, and bring coherence to a space where art, cuisine, and architecture are uniquely paired.
Sustainability ApproachThe lighting system is fully LED-based, combining high-efficiency sources with low-voltage infrastructure and minimal connected loads. A time-based control system allows for scheduled dimming, scene setting, and automatic shut-off outside of operational hours—ensuring energy consumption remains exceptionally low without sacrificing ambiance.
Fixtures were selected for their longevity and adaptability, reducing replacement cycles and material waste. Rechargeable table lamps eliminate hardwired circuits at guest tables, lowering total energy use and allowing flexibility without construction impact.
The lighting avoids glare, ensures color accuracy, and prioritizes visual comfort. A warm palette of low-lumen sources achieves emotional warmth and operational efficiency in equal measure—demonstrating that sustainability and sensorial depth are not mutually exclusive.
