Header: Mark Scott
Located in Mayfair, 42 Cocktail Bar was designed by North End Design as an intimate space that takes guests back to old India. The immersive design won the studio the “Interior Design Cocktail Bar” category at the LIV Hospitality Design Awards, and it’s not hard to see why.
The bar is accessed by a winding staircase leading from a dark green hallway, which was designed to create a sense of transition before entering the main space. After passing the portal, guests finally arrive at the old-timey main space.
Right away, one is introduced to the bar area, which features a carved back bar with verre églomisé panels depicting Indian peafowl. The palette of dusty pink and deep crimson is used throughout the whole space, with archways influenced by Rajasthani architecture separating each section. The main bar counter is adorned by carved wood details and decorative panels, with brass fixtures and mirrored surfaces complementing the look.
Moving towards the bar’s interior, guests arrive at the lounge area, which maintains the material and color palette used in the bar through layered textiles, including paisley, damask, and embroidered fabrics. Upholstered seating in muted patterns is arranged around dark wood tables, with oil paintings depicting portraits and Indian wildlife surrounding them, all framed in ornate gold that contrasts against the deep-toned wallpaper.
But the decorative elements don’t end here. The designers included antique-style furnishings, ceramic vases, and sculptural pieces to create the Indian heritage aesthetic the clients were looking for. For lighting, the designers added custom-cut glass chandeliers imported from India, plus wall-mounted fixtures and table lamps that bring the moody, mysterious ambiance to another level.
After sitting down, one only needs to order from the rich drink menu and relax. The design allows guests to have a never-ending list of topics to discuss, and when the conversation seems to die down, a new detail of the decor that had previously gone unnoticed comes to life. After that, perhaps a new glass of wine is due, as we’re sure guests will be presented with new details if they only look closely.
