Artifact Bar

Artifact Bar

Artifact Bar is an innovative speakeasy establishment that exemplifies the fusion of architectural ingenuity and experiential design, concealed behind a secret passage within a luxury food hall in Hong Kong's Central district. This Gold A' Design Award-winning venue, designed by Nelson Chow, draws inspiration from underground cisterns and surreal geometry, creating an immersive environment that transports guests into an otherworldly realm. The 1,400-square-meter space features a meticulously crafted sequence of spaces, beginning with an acoustic chamber adorned with specially designed speaker-like tiles that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes by dampening external noise. The main bar area showcases dramatic rib-like structures crafted through sophisticated fiberglass molding techniques, complemented by a mirror-finished ceiling that creates an illusion of soaring heights. The design incorporates several distinctive elements, including circular windows resembling industrial pipes, surveillance camera-inspired pendant lighting, and a skylight above the bar mimicking a setting sun. The establishment's innovative approach to spatial design is evident in its seamless transition from the bustling exterior to a serene interior atmosphere, achieved through careful consideration of acoustics, lighting, and material selection. The project demonstrates exceptional attention to technical detail, from the custom-designed acoustic tiles to the precisely engineered fiberglass ribs, while maintaining a strong focus on creating an emotionally engaging environment that challenges conventional perceptions of hospitality spaces.

speakeasy design, immersive architecture, acoustic engineering, experiential interior, surreal spaces, hospitality innovation

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Artifact Bar.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=445615 (Accessed on July 06, 2025)"