Header: Ivan Ivanišević
The Radisson Blu Hotel in Split has unveiled its newly reimagined Mint Bar, a space that serves as an elegant and modern meeting place. It captures the easy-going Mediterranean feeling while presenting a polished, contemporary look. It’s designed to be the lively center of the hotel, a place for guests to enjoy a morning coffee and dessert, an afternoon aperitif, or an evening cocktail with a view of the sea.
The vision behind the space
The new design was conceived by the international firm AKSL architects, led by Špela Leskovic, Aleš Košak, and Samantha Konec. Their main idea was to create a space that feels alive all day. They were inspired by the Dalmatian way of life – spontaneous, warm, and focused on togetherness. They created different types of seating zones so every guest can find their ideal corner, whether they want to socialize or find a quiet moment.
Two bars, one space: From coffee to cocktails
Strategically placed in the heart of the hotel, the Mint Bar features an innovative dual-concept layout. Upon entering, guests first see a custom-made barista counter. It is a low, solid block of local stone, making it feel accessible and casual. It features a sleek glass vitrine displaying pastries. Behind this, and set higher, is the main cocktail bar. This second bar is finished in warm wood tones, complete with its own mixology station and a suspended overhead liquor crown for bottles. This setup allows the atmosphere to shift easily from a daytime coffee spot to a nighttime cocktail lounge.
Texture, art, and local materials
The designers chose materials that emphasize a natural, Mediterranean aesthetic, using local stone, wood, and recycled textiles. The interior walls are covered in layered panel sections that combine wood with tactile wallpapers. These are decorated with bespoke rope artworks by Madidah Art from Slovenia, which look like a contemporary interpretation of macrame. These pieces give the space an artistic and organic feeling. Comfort is central to the design. Lounge areas on both sides of the bar are dressed in soft pink and green hues, with inviting armchairs and sofas from Miniforms and poufs from Nor11. A high communal table, also made of stone, is paired with Nor11 bar stools and lit by Aroma del Campo wall lighting, creating a cozy corner for work or conversation.
The green escape outdoors
The bar opens up to a large terrace, which acts as an outdoor sanctuary. The floor is a warm wooden deck, shaded by a structure of wooden lamellas and textile. Guests can relax in rope-detailed lounge armchairs or on deep green sofas. A central island seating feature from Roche Bobois creates a focal point for gathering. To complete the garden-like ambiance, the designers added lush indoor greenery, outdoor carpets, floor lamps, and more macrame dividers, also by Madidah Art.
A new meeting place for Split
The new Mint Bar now stands as the fifth food and beverage outlet at the hotel, adding another layer of excellence to the Radisson Blu Split. The final result from AKSL architects, which marks the beginning of an ongoing creative partnership, is a space where the design and its function come together to capture the true spirit of the Mediterranean. It successfully creates a central “island” that invites people in, making it an ideal place for meetings, breaks, or evening enjoyment.
Project info
Name: Mint Bar
Location: Split, Croatia
Year: 2025
Architecture Firm: AKSL Architects
Project team: Špela Leskovic, Aleš Košak, Samantha Konec
Photography: Ivan Ivanišević
