Sona, an innovative space designed by Épico Estudio and Panorama, crafts a unique environment by merging raw materials, high-fidelity audio, vibrant lighting, and a curated tea service to immerse visitors in an extraordinary auditory experience at the venue.
Nestled in the vibrant Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City, the establishment eschews traditional bar offerings for a novel concept centered on sound. This venture is the brainchild of creative lead Luis López (known as Lulo), architect Erik López of Épico Estudio, and construction specialist Marcela Segovia from Panorama. Together, they transform passive listening into a mindful adventure, enveloping patrons in a multisensory journey.
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Explore the Unique Concept of Sona Mexico City Bar
Sona draws inspiration from early-20th-century Japanese jazz kissa and the Deep Listening theories of American composer Pauline Oliveros. The 245-square-meter venue resides in the semi-basement of a 1960s building, accessible via intriguing glass and metal doors. Inside, the locale unfolds into distinct areas: a threshold, a tea space, and a listening room, with an adaptable gallery for exhibitions and events. This design follows a museographic approach. The immersive experience begins upon entry, where a slightly lowered ceiling and live audio from the Macaw Sanctuary in Costa Rica, emitted through sculptural ODA speakers, instantly transport visitors away from the bustle of the city.
Moving into the tea area, raw concrete walls offer an authentic historical warmth. Initially, the space was fragmented by interior partitions that obscured views. Removing these revealed raw concrete enriched with layers of paint, which became a foundational design element. Architect Erik López explains, “Everything is raw because of that. We found beauty in the exposed concrete.” Original pressed-glass windows contribute to this ambiance, offering blurred views of the outside.
The centerpiece of the tea area is a custom faux-concrete bar functioning as a reception and tea service station. Highlighted by a linear lamp from Nuumbra Estudio and complemented by indirect warm LED lighting, it creates a soothing environment. The listening bar refrains from serving alcohol, offering Japanese teas instead, aligning with its contemplative listening sessions. The atmosphere is enriched with wooden benches and tables displaying works by Mexican artists, akin to curated museum pieces. Stainless-steel shelving from Album Goods proudly displays books for sale.
For those engaging in sound sessions, custom lockers are available for storing personal items. Guests can equip themselves with pillows, blankets, and eye masks before entering the listening room, expressly a screen-free zone. Collaborating with Ethan Bourdeau of Bourdeau Acoustical Design, the space incorporates specialized acoustic treatments. Architect Erik López notes, “The panels appear identical outwardly, but serve different acoustic functions.” These include absorption, reflection, and transparency—concealing speakers and enhancing sound delivery, powered by Dolby Atmos and a Devon Turnbull-designed OJAS stereo system. The room’s ceiling features a central light capable of displaying calibrated color gradients that synchronize with the music.
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Whether guests indulge in a comprehensive listening session or simply savor a cup of tea, the spot provides a distinctive retreat within the city—a boundless opportunity to disconnect, relax, and fully immerse in a curated sensory experience.
Source: azuremagazine.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the concept behind Sona in Mexico City?
Sona is a unique environment that merges raw materials, high-fidelity audio, vibrant lighting, and a curated tea service, creating an extraordinary auditory experience. The venue draws inspiration from early-20th-century Japanese jazz kissa and is centered on sound without traditional bar offerings.
Who are the creatives behind the design of Sona?
The creative team includes Luis López (known as Lulo), architect Erik López of Épico Estudio, and construction specialist Marcela Segovia from Panorama. They collaborate to envelop patrons in a multisensory journey, transforming passive listening into a mindful adventure.
How is the tea area in Sona designed?
The tea area features raw concrete walls and original pressed-glass windows, offering an authentic historical warmth. The space includes a custom faux-concrete bar for reception and tea service, highlighted by lighting from Nuumbra Estudio, without serving alcohol.