Tucked into the lower story of a delightfully faded building in the heart of Chinatown, Meo embodies the hedonistic energy of the carefree 70s and 80s.
Designed by Ste Marie, the cocktail bar & restaurant is the seductive sister-spot to Bao Bei and Kissa Tanto: a playful and inviting proposition providing a place to indulge, to relish the moment, to simply hang out – whether lingering and luxuriating, inviting friends to join, or to be in and out before dinner or a show.
The dimly lit room is aesthetically inspired both by an image by Vancouver photographer Greg Girard series of Hong Kong nightlife in the 70s and 80s; and by the clandestine “love motels” of a bygone era. Enveloped in plush pink drapery and lush carpeting with vintage floral patterns, the space pops with bold red accents courtesy of 1970s Guzzini pendant lights against walls dressed in dark wood paneling with a glowing old school jukebox, like that in one of Girard’s photos of a restaurant/bar, adding a sense of nostalgia and novelty to the richly textured atmosphere.
The bar itself is an extension of the rumpus room meets bedroom concept, with its eclectic collection of lighting and curios sourced from thrift store finds through the owner’s travels through Taiwan juxtaposed with more modern elements.
Meo invites with warmth and wonder: a cheeky little escape, where the night is always young and full of possibilities.
Team:
Architects: Ste Marie
Photographer: Conrad Brown
