029Reich comments: “The main challenge with
this project was convincing the client to
use as many original products and materials
from Berlin as possible in order to create an
authentic surrounding and feeling and I feel
like this was ultimately achieved.
“Cultural motifs and designs that are unique
to Berlin are seen in the patterns and
arrangements of the pavement stones used
for the table tops and the bar.”
Berlin’s urban street elements act as a script
for the design of the bar and run through
the entire design concept. A narrative that
consequently picks up on traces and moments
of Berlin life. This is also true of the
restaurant's lighting - the decorative fixtures,
which on first view are glowing and winding
bands of light weaving through the room.
These are made of modules from East-Berlin
street lights, bespoke made by Reich himself.
Decorative lighting plays an integral part
in the Moscow project as Reich explained:
“The bended glass pieces hang on strings
underneath a cubic black timber structure in
which spotlights are hidden. It was important
to see only the reflecting light in the glass
and not the light source itself as we wanted
to create a dark but well lit cosy place. Next
to the functional lights we needed something
atmospheric with a soft form that is a
contrast to the cubic concrete forms.
“The architectural lighting elements
illuminate the concrete tables and counter
surface, while the decorative lights create
interesting reflections and a soft glimmer of
light over the guests' faces.”
In the spacial design, past and present,
history and snapshots are closely entwined.
The Berlin Bar in Moscow recalls the historic
connection between the two cities and
equally celebrates Berlin’s present, the
unfinished, the rough, the urban.
Concluding, Reich tells darc: “We believe in
the uniqueness of material and it’s effect
on us. Reusing and upcycling material for
furniture and lighting helped us to create an
authentic atmosphere for this project – not
too polished and new but with a patina and
substance.”
http://www.thiloreich.comBERLIN BAR, MOSCOW, RUSSIA
INTERIOR DESIGN: THILO REICH
LIGHTING SPECIFIED: BESPOKE PIECESdesign details