satin bar   

Satin bar is located on the underground floor of the bustling streets of Akasaka, Tokyo. Hidden and tucked away from the chaos, it is a contemporary interpretation of an Art Deco speakeasy bar. The bar imbues a sense of exclusivity and luxury, while becoming a new place for interaction and exchange.

An existing architectural feature that was repurposed, where the golden arch is the focal centre piece of the bar. Clad in a custom Japanese washi paper, the motif is reminiscent of the Art Deco geometric shell pattern as well as the Tokyo symbol of the Ginko leaf. The intersection of cultures meet here in the materiality, where a local washi making company, Wajue, worked together to produce the exact golden colour, depth, density of the unique washi paper.   

The main bar has a more of a monochromatic material palette with metallic accents and hues where the opulence begins to seep through. Deriving from the name Satin - The material palette uses a rich, moody and sophisticated palette to compliment the experience of being in an Art Deco speakeasy. The ceiling is adorned with textured mirrored metallic panels to open up the space and reflect light, and to brighten up the bar which is located in the basement. The 11 metre long bar uses a black textured tile from Tajimi, Japan which is the centre of the Japanese tile industry with a centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship and excellence.

The linear layout of the bar leads to a private lounge that has a distinct electric blue palette where various textures and tones of blue are abundant. The lounge is simply titled the ‘Blue room’ in which a hidden door will lead you to the secluded lounge with intimate seating, that has geometric meditations and brass accents.

The bathroom continues with the monochromatic and brass accents, while geometric wallpaper and tiles accentuate the maximalist approach. The custom mirror is inspired by an Art Deco geometric pattern from a book published in the 70's titled Art Deco design and motifs. Combining a Hollywood style mirror with Art deco graphics, The mirror extends from wall to wall to make the space appear bigger. 

The bar takes a maximalist approach to the Art Deco concept, where materiality, texture and tactility is at its core of the design.

Photography: Daisuke Hashihara

Contractors : AICS
Furniture: Vintagehouse