London-based interior architecture studio A-nrd has completed the redesign of Anise, the 60-seat cocktail bar and lounge at Cinnamon Kitchen in Devonshire Square.
Set within a former East India Trading Company warehouse, the renovation brings renewed warmth to the space through a layered, spice-informed design. The concept draws on the chromatic language of Indian cuisine, translating the depth of spices into a tonal palette and mix of materials. Dark oak, velvet, leather, terrazzo, and marquetry are used throughout to create a lounge environment designed to encourage guests to linger before and after dining.
The centerpiece bar
A monolithic bar anchors the interior with 24 black swivel stools upholstered in tarragon-toned leather. A-nrd retained the existing marble-clad bar, refreshing it with embellished orange and green terrazzo tiles and a new dark oak countertop that softens its presence. Above, a deep green velvet curtain wraps the bar perimeter, concealing shelving and introducing softness and enclosure. Integrated into this overhead element is bespoke marquetry artwork by Chelsea Vivash that was crafted from off-cut veneers.
Beyond the bar, the lounge unfolds into a series of relaxed seating zones accommodating an additional 30 guests. Custom banquettes line the perimeter, crafted in dark oak with curved bases and extended armrests. Upholstery draws from spice-inspired hues—including cumin-toned geometric checks and green velvet cylindrical cushions—while tall glazed ceramic table lamps perch atop the booth arms. Marble-topped tables punctuate the space, paired with rattan pendants that diffuse low, ambient light.
Layered materials at Anise
Walls are finished in a dual limewash of soft sumac and muted saffron tones, layered with dark oak framework, terrazzo detailing, and a slim wall mirror that introduces rhythm and reflection. Existing encaustic floor tiles were retained to ground the refurbishment, with rugs added to soften and define seating areas.
Along the windows, poseur tables have been updated with marble tops and upholstered details that echo the banquettes, transforming transitional edges into inviting seating. Throughout, personal and cultural narratives are subtly embedded, including Indian ceramic figurines collected by chef Vivek Singh.
“We wanted to transform Anise by working with what was already there; keeping the bar, the floor and the spatial structure, then softening and rebalancing them through texture, color, and detail,” says Alessio Nardi, founder of A-nrd. “The aim was to create a space that feels more intimate and more inviting, without over-designing it.”
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