Nestled on Sausalito’s picturesque waterfront, Barrel House Tavern spans 5,000 square feet on Bridgeway Avenue. This artisan enclave, designed by Cass Calder Smith Architecture, boasts 140 seats offering panoramic views of the Bay and San Francisco. The restaurant blends the location’s vibrant history with custom-designed furnishings and an interior inspired by the theme of “Craft.”
Constructed in the early 1900s, the building originally served as the ferry terminal for travelers between Sausalito and San Francisco before the Golden Gate Bridge existed. After years of vacancy, owner Chris Henry, who spearheaded both the ownership and contracting process, meticulously transformed the space into a lively masterpiece, crafting much of the interior alongside his team.
A New Chapter of Artistry
The structure tells tales of a century-old history. It retains its charm with expansive windows, a waterfront deck, traditional cement plaster arches, and a ceiling of reclaimed maple. The renovation, a nearly two-year project, allowed Henry and his team to preserve historical elements while establishing a unique identity for the restaurant.
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Craftsmanship From Floor to Ceiling
The “Craft” ethos is evident throughout Barrel House Tavern. Dining spaces feature walnut slab tables, while the bar is adorned with handcrafted leather belting. This creative sanctuary displays the reclaimed maple ceiling with a captivating design, curling inward like a barrel, and the cement plaster arches are refreshed with polished finishes, highlighted with bronze linings.
The Bar Takes Center Stage
A striking Carrera marble bar acts as the heart of the restaurant, merging various seating arrangements. To the left, an inviting lounge surrounds a blackened steel fire orb with plush seating. On the right, custom curved shelves showcase champagne, enhancing the main dining room.
Details Made for the Space
Custom fabrication permeates this work of art. Visitors are greeted by a walnut-lined staircase, with liquor and wine displayed on a blackened steel and metal mesh framework. Bespoke furniture amplifies the handcrafted aesthetic, complemented by dishware from Health Ceramics, adding personalized touches throughout.
A Waterfront Dining Room
The dining room maximizes its waterfront location with floor-to-ceiling windows facing San Francisco Bay. A linear fireplace adds warmth, while outdoor seating on the deck lets patrons enjoy the stunning views. The 140-seat restaurant offers diverse seating options from the main dining area to more intimate lounges in this artistic hub.
Barrel House Tavern intricately weaves together the historical fabric of its 1900s structure with an interior rich in handmade decor. Retaining its ferry terminal legacy, it now features a bar, lounge, dining room, and outdoor seating. Its standout design elements include the Carrera marble bar, maple ceiling, walnut finishes, and bronze arches, offering a crafted dining experience enhanced by the breathtaking Bay panorama.
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Photography: Paul Dyer | Design: CCS – Cass Calder Smith Architecture | Architect of Record: Edward A Llora, Disseny Llora | General Contractor: Chris Henry
Source: contemporist.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the theme of Barrel House Tavern?
Barrel House Tavern has a theme of ‘Craft.’ The interior design reflects this ethos with elements like walnut slab tables and a handcrafted leather belting-decorated bar. The design emphasizes handmade decor and custom fabrication throughout the restaurant.
What historical element does Barrel House Tavern retain?
Barrel House Tavern retains its legacy as the ferry terminal for travelers between Sausalito and San Francisco. Originally constructed in the early 1900s, the structure maintains charm with features like expansive windows, a waterfront deck, cement plaster arches, and reclaimed maple ceilings.
Who was responsible for transforming the Barrel House Tavern?
Owner Chris Henry was responsible for transforming the Barrel House Tavern. He led both the ownership and contracting process, meticulously crafting much of the interior alongside his team.