LW Design: Creating a Captivating, Japanese Inspired Bar Design

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a captivating, Japanese inspired bar design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, LW Design.

Reminiscent of the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, 7 Tales is a speakeasy cocktail bar where guests can experience urban Japan with a New York twist. An illustration of a man wandering through an archway into the unknown leads through a large pivot entrance door. Confused yet intrigued guests are transported into a small chamber entirely clad in mirrors; a second door opens, and suddenly, kanpai!, a flurry of colour, energy and mystery engulfs them. A glowing lacquered orange bar carved out of solid oak panels takes centre stage as they enter a nostalgic and mesmerising world of debauchery.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for 7 Tales was to create a speakeasy cocktail bar that captures the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo with a New York twist. The bar was intended to be reminiscent of an ‘Izakaya-styled speakeasy,’ providing guests with an immersive experience of urban Japan. The design was expected to be playful, innovative, and inspired by Japanese culture, offering a unique approach to mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere that would appeal to guests into the early hours of the morning. Access was to remain through City Social restaurant on the 43rd floor of Grosvenor House, and the goal was to establish a nightlife hotspot on the 44th floor.

What inspired the design of the project?

The dynamic culture of Tokyo nightlife and Japanese aesthetics inspired the design of 7 Tales. The concept aimed to blend traditional elements with a modern twist, drawing from various 1960s and 70s movements, including the Golden Age movement and Art Deco. The goal was to create a mesmerising world of debauchery that transports guests into a realm of energy, color, and mystery. The graffiti-style artwork on the walls and ceilings, referencing Japan’s cultural zeitgeist, along with the fusion of street art and traditional elements, brought a captivating and unique visual identity to the space.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle the team had to overcome was the installation of the intricate ceiling graffiti while managing and maintaining the integrity of all the MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) fixtures. The technical challenge of coordinating the artwork with the necessary technical elements required careful planning and execution to ensure seamless integration.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of 7 Tales for the team was successfully creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere that combined traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design elements. The focal point of the Negroni gaming table, where guests engaged in a unique dice game to determine their drink of the night, added an interactive and engaging dimension to the bar experience.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

LW entered the SBID Awards to showcase the innovative and captivating design of 7 Tales, highlighting their ability to merge different design influences into a cohesive and visually striking concept. The unique approach to storytelling through artwork and the successful execution of the speakeasy’s atmosphere made it a strong contender for recognition within the design industry.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held great significance for designer’s Pooja Shah-Mulani, Jesper Axel Petersen, and LW Design. The recognition affirmed their design expertise and ability to overcome technical challenges while delivering a visually stunning and immersive space. Being a finalist reinforced their reputation in the design community, validating their creativity and commitment to pushing design boundaries.

Questions answered by Pooja Shah Mulani, Partner and Design Director at LW Design.