New York-based design practice studioBIG has completed the renewal of Charlotte’s Speakeasy, a historic bar concept along Main Street in Farmingdale, New York on Long Island. Led by Leah Plevrites, the subterranean speakeasy is inspired by the palette of the upstairs concept Charlotte’s Yogurt. A palette of gold and navy reinterpret the yogurt shop’s sunny yellow and blue tones for a sultrier ambiance, while dark wood and painted tin ceilings add warmth.
The speakeasy is accessed through the yogurt shop’s white bookcase where a dramatic glass chandelier illuminates the staircase and ceramic wood-like tiles in a herringbone pattern welcome visitors. Upholstered high-back chairs and luxe banquettes populate the lounge space, while lighting above the bar references vintage liquor bottles. Custom antique mirrors and mounted pedestal candleholders line the walls against cork penny tile and fleur-de-lis wallpaper. Velvet navy drapery that hangs from the back wall adds softness, improves acoustics, and reveals a cinderblock wall, which is another reference to the ad-hoc speakeasy location.
