For Bar Americano, Space Exploration Design was tasked with fashioning a neighborhood bar with the aesthetic of a longtime community fixture. Therefore, the new bar in the Greenpoint section of Brooklyn embraces a restrained simplicity reminiscent of the classic, cozy aperitivo bars of Europe.
“The European local spots that inspired Bar Americano don’t look over-designed or precious. In fact, many of them probably weren’t designed by a professional at all, and their character developed over time, nurtured by proprietors who put great service and relationships first,” says Kevin Greenberg, principal at Space Exploration Design. “Our hope is that Bar Americano becomes a kind of ‘new old favorite’ for its patrons, the default destination for neighborhood residents who want to grab a solo drink and snack at the bar on a weeknight, or a place to bring visiting friends to catch up, or even to impress a new flame.”
A warm and neutral materiality showcases natural finishes—including unlacquered brass, plaster walls, and classic tin tiles that wrap the ceiling in a matte white hue that contrasts the red, yellow, and green color story—selected to patina gracefully over time.
A mahogany bar and backbar also offsets the color palette, accented with tight tambour panels that explore verticality theme in tandem with fluted glass elements. An illuminated vintage wall clock punctuates the backbar, where a medley of spirits is displayed like décor. The gilded convex reflectors of the backbar sconces are also animated with abstracted floral patterns. Seating is arranged at different scales for guests seated beyond the bar counter, including a rounded corner banquette tucked behind the bar for greater intimacy.
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