Leon is a daringly fun speakeasy-inspired bar just off the main lobby. It’s an exciting juxtaposition to the rest of the hotel with its provocative and punchy blocks of colour against a dark background. It’s the hidden gem of the iconic hotel with a mysterious yet exclusive vibe.
Project brief
LW Design was tasked with creating a signature EDITION punch bar in keeping with Dubai’s energy and urban appeal with a nod to unexpected nostalgia. Typically, the EDITION’s Punch Bars are a modern incarnation of London’s 19th century ‘private clubs’ and affords patrons an intimate and exclusive space away from the buzz of the city.
Concept
An ‘if you know, you know’ secret bar that comfortably seats 50 guests and provides a modern clandestine appeal. Upon entering Leon through a dark timber door, a blue banquette organically cloaks the bar. The monolithic bar is carefully wrapped in veinmatching black St Laurent marble. The bright pink bar stools look impressively urban against the intricate mosaic flooring. At the rear of the bar, mesh-fronted vintage cabinets discreetly house a collection of rare liquors adding to the sense of mystery. The bar is reminiscent of an old speakeasy on an old, cobbled street.
Various seating designs form small groupings of gold settees, high-backed wing chairs and cosy bucket seating. A feature DJ booth makes this little bar a perfect space for private events and launches. The walls are lined with solid oak wood scallops, which are individually lit to give the illusion of thick dark textured drapes around the bar. Bright blue velvet curtains line the windows breaking the monotony of the expansive timber and creating a vivid softness within the space. The final gem is the covered terrace lined with pink sofas and Vincent Shepard chairs. Each sofa is framed with a façade mullion and candle-lit hurricane lanterns.
A discreet exit door leads directly to the pick-up point, cleverly positioned for a quick getaway after an indulgent night out! The washrooms are designed in the same moody fashion. The washbasins are constructed from St Laurent marble, which has been carefully vein-matched to appear that it's been carved from a single block.
About the execution
The mosaic stone flooring was challenging due to the scale of the mosaics and circular patterning. The unevenness adds charm reminiscent of a cobbled street.
About the ambience
Leon is satisfyingly magical, unexpected and exudes a lively energy. The ambience is dark and moody, with clever lighting that enhances the vibrant colours used throughout the space. It’s a stark contrast to the adjacent hotel lobby which is an oasis of effortless comfort..
Technical elements
State of the art AV system to ramp up the vibe.
Material selection
St. Laurent marble, black stained oak, Nero Marquina floor mosaic. Rich velvets in shocking blue, pink and gold. Baroque style cushions juxtapose a hint of nostalgia.
Furniture chosen
All furniture is handcrafted locally with the highest quality materials and attention to detail. Outdoor rattan chairs are from Vincent Shepard.
Team:
Contractor: Bhatia Contractor and JC Maclean.
Designers: Pooja Shah-Mulani.
