Drawing from the sensibilities of Japanese Noh theatre, the interiors use light as both atmosphere and orientation, guiding patrons through a series of concealed thresholds and immersive seating zones. The result is a project that feels performative and grounded—part ritual, part retreat—where the material palette, lighting and spatial rhythm work in quiet collaboration.

Arrival is marked by subtle cues: a pendant light glows gently at street level, casting soft light on a bespoke tapestry by artist Chris Yee, which hints at the concealed world below. Once inside, the descent into the bar unfolds slowly. Lighting is curated with precision, evoking the stagecraft of traditional Japanese performance to reveal the venue in fragments. Emphasis is placed on indirect light and soft shadows, allowing the glow of the whiskey bottles—carefully backlit—to become a focal point throughout.

Material selections embrace the rawness of the underground shell, celebrating texture and tonal contrast. Cool-toned brick and exposed blockwork are paired with stained steel and blackened timber to create a robust and tactile base. These are softened by patchwork leather banquette seating, handcrafted ceramics and floral arrangements that inject moments of warmth into the otherwise darkened palette. The seating plan is intentionally non-linear, with intimate alcoves and incidental gathering points nestled into the architecture to create a sense of discovery.