SHANGHAI – Offering exclusive views of the iconic Shanghai skyline, the new VIP Lounge at Bar Rouge plays on the typography of the urban setting. The project proposal requested a design which would ‘reinterpret the known cityscape of Shanghai, with an intervention which would maximise its visual impact, transforming the way the space is conceived’. Taking a very literal approach – by abstracting the silhouettes of the surrounding buildings – local firm 100architects devised an ‘inhabitable architectural object’ which nestles into place along the edge of the roof terrace.
The object is constructed entirely from the highly durable and versatile solid surfacing material Corian, in a shade defined as ‘hot red’ which fits perfectly with the visual identity of the bar. The glossy material finish emphasises the area’s exclusivity and reflects the dancing lights of the city skyline. Cubic proportions add a symmetry and balance to the overall design. Five distinctive seating arrangements – from individual cube stools to a stepped bench wall – offer a range of environments to cater to the specific needs of the clientele.
The firm explains: ‘We possess a singular vision: we design architectural objects that attract people and encourage social interaction.’ Specialising in inhabitable interventions, Bar Rouge is an exemplar project of the firm’s overall portfolio.
Drawings courtesy of 100architects and photos courtesy of Nemanja Aleksic