Crafting a Modern Classic in Milan
Local studio NM3 has transformed a compact Milanese space into Bar Bardo, drawing inspiration from Vienna‘s iconic 20th-century American Bar by Adolf Loos. Situated in the heart of the city, this establishment is not merely a replica but a distinctly Milanese bar that is both contemporary and classic in its approach.
Design Influences and Intentions
“The American Bar was more of an aspiration than a direct formal reference,” explained NM3 co-founder Francesco Zorzi. While the Kronenhalle in Zurich by Robert and Trix Haussmann was another influence, NM3 sought to establish a venue with a unique spatial identity for Milan. The bar certainly achieves this vision with its unique design elements.
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Situated near the famous Bar Basso, it occupies a 55-square-meter single room, complemented by a striking bathroom. Here, NM3’s signature modernist-style stainless steel furniture takes center stage, affirming the studio’s growing reputation since its 2020 inception.
A Harmony of Materials
The interior showcases polished rosewood panels along the walls and ceiling, enhancing acoustics and ambiance. In the center, a stainless steel bar reflects the glow of 1950s pendant lights by Luigi Caccia Dominioni. NM3 modified these lamps with extended black chains, integrating modern touches of modernist design.
Around the room, built-in red velvet banquette seating matches crimson curtains, while vivid red speakers flank a stainless steel DJ booth and metal record shelves. The space’s adaptability allows furniture to be removed, transforming from cocktail bar to club with ease. This retro-modern bar combines classic and contemporary elements seamlessly.
Striking Bathroom Design
The bathroom at Bar Bardo is enveloped in vibrant red tiles, measuring 10 by 10 centimeters, extending from floor to ceiling. Stainless steel fixtures and sconce lights maintain the bar’s minimalist yet striking aesthetic, completing the sophisticated environment.
Pioneering a Softer Design Path
With Bar Bardo, NM3 embraces a softer design direction, contrasting previous works like the “raw” interior for Galleria Montegani. Yet, the studio’s affinity for metal elements persists, showcased in a recent collaboration with fashion brand Miss Sixty. At this Milanese venue, NM3’s softer touches are complemented by the enduring elegance of their metalwork.
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Photography by Piercarlo Quecchia captures the detailed artistry of NM3’s latest venture. The studio’s work exemplifies the innovative spirit found in Milan’s design landscape, once again elevating Bar Bardo to a highlight of Italy‘s design capital.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of Bar Bardo?
Bar Bardo’s design was inspired by Vienna’s iconic 20th-century American Bar by Adolf Loos, with additional influences from the Kronenhalle in Zurich by Robert and Trix Haussmann. The intent was to create a venue with a unique spatial identity for Milan.
What materials are used in Bar Bardo’s interior?
The interior of Bar Bardo features polished rosewood panels along the walls and ceiling, a stainless steel bar, built-in red velvet banquette seating, crimson curtains, and vivid red speakers.
What is unique about Bar Bardo’s bathroom design?
The bathroom at Bar Bardo is completely enveloped in vibrant red tiles, measuring 10 by 10 centimeters, from floor to ceiling. Stainless steel fixtures and sconce lights continue the minimalist yet striking aesthetic of the bar.
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