Launched earlier this year inside the Ponce City Market in the Old Fourth ward neighbourhood in Atlanta, Georgia, the atrium bar and restaurant by Smith Hanes Studio is an eclectic little getaway from everyday life.
Taking inspiration from vibrant French cafes and Art Deco buildings, the design celebrates floral art, whimsy and zest. The restaurant comprises two distinct parts, the Parlour, a 1200sqft bar room and the Bistro, a 4000sqft spacious dining room. A palette of rich greens, pink and gold creates a dreamy yet vivid ambience.
The highlight of the cocktail lounge is the green-fluted ceramic tiles handcrafted by a local ceramist Charlotte Smith, covering the bar counter and the column behind. Dazzling brass chandeliers, symbolic of ornate Parisian dwellings full of splendour and glory, beautifully light up the counter. The arched décor bar sits in contrast to the light terrazzo countertop, both playing with curves to give a soft, inviting appearance.
Another notable highlight is the pink mural, inspired by an opalescent flock of ibis birds, hand painted by Kipper Millsap. The mural along with imported fringe lights from Spain set a moody tone for the bar area.
Arched opening in The Parlour leads to a bright lounge with relaxed seating above the green and white flooring, subsequently leading to the Bistro, a dining room with dappled green walls and a diagonally striped patterned wooden floor.
The dining area is transformed into a Parisian Garden by floral drapes made of dried petals, leaves, and vines suspended from the ceiling. Dusky rose banquettes and deep teal love seats encircle rustic wooden tables with colour-coordinated chairs for smaller gatherings.
The cantilevered hand-blown pink glass lamps supported by brass arms cast a soft, warm glow. Overall, the restaurant perfectly captures the glamour of a garden party while adding a touch of verdancy to the space.
