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Diana Kellogg's Tribeca Residence: A Masterclass in Industrial Chic Transformation
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Rehanna Leong's Versatile Kitchen Design for Modern Living
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Experience the Fusion of Classic Charm and Modern Versatility at Bar Bardo
Architectural Lineage and Design Philosophy
Local design firm NM3 drew considerable inspiration from the renowned American Bar in Vienna, a monumental work by Adolf Loos from the early 20th century. This historical touchstone served as a foundational concept rather than a direct blueprint for Bar Bardo's distinctive red-hued interiors. The studio aimed to craft a quintessential Milanese bar, imbued with a unique spatial and architectural character, diverging from a mere reproduction of past designs.
A Compact Yet Dynamic Space
Nestled across from Milan's celebrated Bar Basso, Bar Bardo occupies an intimate 55-square-meter single room, complemented by an adjoining restroom. The meticulous attention to detail is evident, with nearly every component custom-fabricated by NM3, a studio acclaimed since its 2020 inception for its contemporary stainless steel furnishings.
Sensory Richness through Materials and Lighting
The establishment's walls and ceiling are encased in lustrous polished rosewood panels, a choice that not only visually enlarges the cozy confines but also enhances the venue's acoustic properties. A signature NM3 stainless steel bar anchors the center, its reflective surfaces playing with the light from the vintage, globular pendant lamps by Italian architect Luigi Caccia Dominioni, which have been subtly updated with elongated black chains.
Vibrant Accents and Functional Versatility
The space is further defined by integrated red velvet banquette seating along its periphery, harmonizing with crimson draperies and an array of vivid red speakers. These audio elements are thoughtfully arranged around a stainless steel DJ booth and metal shelving dedicated to vinyl records, reinforcing Bar Bardo's identity as a listening bar. A key aspect of the design is its inherent flexibility, allowing the space to effortlessly transition from a relaxed cocktail lounge to a vibrant club simply by reconfiguring its movable furnishings.
The Striking Restroom: A Red Sanctuary
The bar's restroom makes a bold statement, enveloped from floor to ceiling in bright red 10-centimeter-by-10-centimeter tiles. This intense color scheme is balanced by the practicality of stainless steel fixtures, including toilets and sinks, illuminated by understated sconce lighting, creating a utilitarian yet visually impactful annex.
NM3's Evolving Design Signature
Bar Bardo signifies a subtle evolution in NM3's design approach, showcasing a softer aesthetic compared to their previous, more industrial projects like the "raw" interior of Milan's Galleria Montegani or the metallic-heavy Miss Sixty store. This project underscores the studio's innovative capacity to blend historical references with contemporary design, confirming their pivotal role in Milan's dynamic design landscap