At the end of an unsuspecting alley, below a boisterous sports bar lies Detroit's Most Intimate Room. Born from the intersection of indulgence, mischief, charm, and sophistication Saksey’s is an undeniable invitation to immerse oneself in opulence and warmth.

This 125 square meter jewel box drips in indulgence. Confronted by a maximum ceiling height of 2 meters and crisscrossed with exposed ductwork, our team deployed an innovative design solution; mirrored ceilings to create a sense of infinite height, a technique that visually expands the low-slung space and becomes a theatrical canvas for lighting. Every material choice—velvet, high-gloss wood, reflective metal—serves double duty as aesthetic gesture and spatial problem solver. Despite size constraints, the room functions flawlessly, accommodating both private events and nightly gatherings with ease.

Saksey's creatively revives the spirit of a bar by the same name owned by the client’s family in 1970s Detroit; a raucous local bar known for its lively atmosphere. This modern interpretation honors that legacy by infusing the space with storytelling and unapologetic personality. Moody lighting, rich textures, and daring patterns serve as visual callbacks to the boldness of that era while elevating the experience through a refined lens. The design transforms nostalgia into something layered, contemporary, and unexpected. Every detail is both homage and evolution, inviting guests to partake in a new chapter of a storied Detroit name.

Functionality was driven by a desire to create intimacy without compromising efficiency. Custom banquette seating was integrated along the room’s perimeter to anchor the layout and maximize capacity within the compact footprint. This built-in approach establishes a cozy rhythm and invites conversation, while also opening up circulation . The bar, petite but powerful, allows for high-touch service and a feeling of personal connection between guest and bartender.

Throughout the project, we prioritized having an eco-social impact by working with Detroit-based vendors and fabricators, ensuring that the space not only reflected the city’s creative energy but actively contributed to it. Materials were locally sourced wherever possible, supporting a network of makers whose work adds authenticity. Saksey’s is a participant in Detroit’s next chapter. It invites locals and visitors alike to experience a Detroit that is refined, magnetic, and unapologetically original.