In the historic centre of Lviv, Ukraine, MAD Bars House by YOD Group is a six-storey building comprising five bars and restaurants. Though each floor functions as a different bar, the spaces are linked by a common staircase and share a common material and colour scheme that emphasizes local culture and craft tradition. The staircase, made of mosaic pixels, indicates the alcohol inherent in the drinks associated with that particular floor. The higher the floor, the higher the percentage of alcohol in the beverages being served.
Upon entry, visitors begin at the ‘Varvar Pub.’ The pub features a long, joint-free wooden bar made from oak pieces that were initially used as joists 150 years ago.
On the second floor, ‘Win Bar’ features custom-made lamps, vintage Bauhaus chairs, and shelves with wines from around the world. One of the walls is decorated with wooden casting molds obtained from a local glassmaker’s workshop, where custom-made decanters for the restaurant were also sourced.
From here, the stairs lead onward to the third floor, which features a pure and open aesthetic of light wood and white tile. Called the Wona Restaurant, the space is an open plan restaurant concept where gastronomic shows take place.
The fourth floor features an expansive kitchen where dishes for the different floor menus are prepared.
On the fifth floor, the ‘Buzz Bar’ is a classic American-style bar with a central square counter. The patterned carpet reflects the relief of the steel sloping ceiling.
Finally, on the sixth floor, we come to the ‘Molfar Bar,’ which specializes in Ukrainian bar mixology. The room features dark glass bottles, deep lounge chairs, an open fireplace, furs, shadows, fragrances and a chamber-like atmosphere.
The overall project result is not just a venue, but a unique restaurant format and experience.
