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The Vault

Studio Munge

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Crystal Bar - Brandon Barre
Vaulted Lounge - Brandon Barre
Reception - Brandon Barre
Crystal Bar - Brandon Barre

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Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
Bar
7.25
7.20
7.35
6.85
7.16
Peter Greenberg
Peter Greenberg Partner at Ester Bruzkus Architekten
7
7
7
6
6.75
Paolo Torri
Paolo Torri Exhibition Design Manager at Pedrali
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
Alexandra Cantacuzene
Alexandra Cantacuzene Director of Interior Design at Al Futtaim Real Estate Group
7
7
7
7
7
Ray Chou
Ray Chou Founder and Creative Director at Vermilion Zhou Design Group
7
7
7
6
6.75
Ethan Yao
Ethan Yao China Resources Land at Deputy General Manager and Chief Architect of Design Management
8.5
7.5
8
7
7.75
Ina Nikolova
Ina Nikolova Partner & Senior Project Manager at Kinzo Architekten
7
7
7
7
7
Clemence Pirajean
Clemence Pirajean Cofounder at Pirajean Lees
7
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.38
Vandana Dhawan Saxena
Vandana Dhawan Saxena Founder and Design Principal at Studio IV Designs
8
7
8
7
7.5
Ali Mohammadioun
Ali Mohammadioun Founder at E plus A Atelier
7
7.5
7
7
7.13
Paul Birkhead
Paul Birkhead Cofounder and Creative Director at Syn Retail
6.5
7
7.5
6.5
6.88
Client
MGM Resorts International
Floor area
157 ㎡
Completion
2023
Social Media
Instagram Linkedin
Lighting
Furniture
Finishes
Furniture

The Vault at Bellagio Resort & Casino is a pioneering speakeasy cocktail lounge that redefines luxury hospitality through its innovative design and exclusive guest experience. The venue integrates modern design thinking with heritage craftsmanship to create a high-functioning, socially impactful space that speaks to the world’s most discerning clientele.

Studio Munge’s approach embraces a blend of classic opulence and contemporary unpredictability, making the space feel both timeless and forward-looking. The design reflects a deep understanding of human behavior and environmental psychology—encouraging a shift in body language and emotional response as guests transition into the sultry, tactile environment.

Functionality plays a critical role in The Vault’s spatial planning and user experience. The lounge occupies 1,700 square feet and accommodates up to 53 guests with a variety of seating options—ranging from intimate banquettes for quiet conversation to vibrant, interactive spaces at the cocktail bar. This spatial flexibility allows for dynamic social engagement while maintaining personal comfort and privacy.

Innovation is particularly evident in the use of bespoke materials and custom-built features. The entry vestibule’s octagonal layout and mohair-upholstered walls set the tone for a curated sensory journey. Key architectural elements such as the Portoro Gold marble and lacquered surfaces elevate the spatial language, while the layered lighting—featuring Welles sconces and cove lights—creates a warm, enveloping atmosphere. These design choices are not merely aesthetic but serve to guide guests emotionally and spatially through the venue.

Sustainability and social impact are subtly embedded into the project through craftsmanship and material choices that honor traditional artisan techniques. Collaborations with industry leaders like The Rug Company support artisanal manufacturing and reinforce the venue’s commitment to heritage quality over disposable luxury. These partnerships contribute to a longer lifecycle for materials and furnishings, supporting sustainable practices in high-end hospitality design.

The destination cocktail bar is a pinnacle of design functionality and innovation. A diamond-shaped floor pattern extends to the bar top, uniting the space visually and spatially. The 14-foot-high ceiling and integrated shelving serve both aesthetic and functional purposes—highlighting rare bottles and collectable glassware as art pieces. The use of reflective surfaces, including a massive faceted chandelier and mirrored back bar, enhances the visual experience while minimizing the need for excessive artificial lighting, contributing to energy efficiency.