Spaces Vol 1 Is 6

STARK
SOPHISTICATION
The design of a bar or restaurant
is like a theatre design: it sets a
stage, effectively creating the
mood for a wholesome
experience. While a glass of beer is just
a glass of beer, the surroundings in which
that glass of beer is served should subtly
engage the diner. It should offer a tenor
that ranges from hard-edged urban
sophistication to upscale elegance to
downplayed comfort. It should be able
to talk and to convey a message.
J Bar’s concept was visualized while
holidaying in Sri Lanka. The plan was a
rough sketch of the ceiling with charcoal
pencil shading, highlighting the proposed
recesses in the ceiling. It was more of an
artist’s version of the ceiling - very fluid,
very dramatic. This rough sketch was
faxed to Anand (one of the owners) who
surprisingly approved it instantly!
IDENTITY Located on the first floor of
the building that houses the famous
Himlayan Java in Thamel, the space now
occupied by the bar was used partly as
an office and partly as a store.
Two entrances lead to the J Bar - one
in the front of the building towards the
main road and the other, opposite to
the beautiful Keshar Mahal. There are
no signboards or any kind of signage
anywhere identifying J Bar. The bar’s
only identification is through word of
mouth of satisfied clients.
62 SEP-OCT 2005 SPACES