Since 2008, The Cap (La Capsule), a beer specialized bar, occupies a late XVIIIth century narrow building in the heart of the listed historical district of Lille. In 2016, the owner wished to renovate and refurbish the old-fashioned interior. Considering this remarkable patrimonial context, how could the metamorphosis take place without troubling the spirit of the place?
To reveal A double height entry was created in order to allow glimpses of the entresol. Ashwood and cast iron helical stairs, “bistrot”-style, lead to the private tasting area on the mezzanine. The bar revealed its width once the canopy has been dismantled.
To adapt Firstly designed as an underground space, the glass cold room has finally been displayed upstairs, visible from the main entrance. The integrity of the brick-layered vaulted cellar has been preserved. A galvanized steel structure has been inserted between the existing wooden floors in order to support the two tons barrels. An electric winch has been devoted to their lifting.
Setting the scene The draft beers take place along the slate-covered wall. Informing the customers of the frequent changing of available beers is facilitated by removable numbered plates at the top. Lower, the 28 wooden pump handles stand on line, facing the customers. This way, the users have freedom to enjoy the entirely free Bourgogne ashwood bar. The background of the bar is set with black birch plywood furniture including all the necessary drawers, shelves and boards. A partition made of empty beer bottles acts as a filter between the bar and the toilets. Facing the bar, the back-lit bottle ends diffuse an amber light interrupted by the shadows of the customers passing by. Facing the toilets, the bottlenecks catch the light and create a repetitive pattern. Curved panels evoking the shape of a cap have been placed above this thick partition, which are used to display the different bottled beers available. The voluntary face to face with materials intend to build a friendly atmosphere.
