Nestled along the Patapsco River waterfront in Baltimore, Maryland, Rye Street Tavern will emerge as a warm and inviting destination, reinvigorated from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clyde's Restaurant Group, the visionary client behind Rye Street Tavern, entrusted GrizForm Design Architects to serve as the lead architects and interior designers and breathe new life into the tavern. Aligning with the ethos of "better to eat in a bar than drink in a restaurant," the client sought to foster a vibrant and lively atmosphere where every seat would offer an unparalleled view of the action.
Inspired by the elemental and raw essence of the existing finishes, GrizForm embraced the art of distillation as the catalyst for their design direction. Drawing inspiration from Sagamore Spirit, a local whiskey distillery renowned for its rye, the team channeled their creativity into an array of design elements, seamlessly blending history and modernity.
The design objectives were clear and ambitious: to forge a connection with the waterfront and craft a space that can be appreciated throughout the seasons. The design team’s solution was a full outdoor bar adorned with a boat house-inspired roofline. This architectural piece provides both shelter and a profound link to the water, as guests immerse themselves in a three-season area, complete with lawn games, patio furniture, and fire pits.
Throughout the design process, GrizForm confronted the challenge of striking a perfect equilibrium—a harmonious blend of preserving the tavern's existing charm while introducing strategic changes to elevate functionality and flow. With a keen eye for detail, every alteration served a purpose, weaving together a variety of elements to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
As guests flow through the space, they will be embraced by a welcoming host entry leading to two distinct areas. One side reveals a dining room with an open kitchen, where U-shaped booths enveloped in leather seats exude warmth and comfort. On the other side, a stylish bar and oyster bar will entice visitors with floor-to-ceiling glass, offering panoramic views of the waterfront. The upper level, thoughtfully reimagined from private dining to a la carte seating, reveals an expanded bar and patio deck, commanding additional views of the Patapsco River waterfront.
GrizForm's design palette includes the interplay of wood, raw steel, leather, glass, and lighter stone, woven into a rich tapestry of textures and hues. Custom elements throughout the space embody the essence of distinction, with the outdoor bar, boasting a boat house-inspired roofline and green roof, proudly serving as a focal point that melds with the waterfront setting.
Ultimately, Rye Street Tavern will stand as an oasis where hospitality, design, and the art of distillation intertwine. Its waterfront setting, lively atmosphere, and thoughtful design elements pay homage to Baltimore's heritage, offering guests a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Upon completion, Rye Street Tavern will invite guests to indulge in a reimagined bar experience, creating cherished memories in this picturesque setting inspired by the legacy of Sagamore Spirit.
