Project: Bursa Bar
Architecture: Mirzoyan Studio
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine
Area: 55 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Yevhenii Avramenko
Bursa Bar, nestled in the heart of Podil on the first floor of the Bursa Hotel in Kyiv’s historic center, is a vibrant reflection of contemporary Japanese culture, artfully blended with the world of cocktails and music. This small yet cozy music bar has been designed to attract vinyl record enthusiasts and live-set lovers, becoming a weekend hub for musicians and vinyl collectors from around the globe.
A Thoughtfully Designed Space for Music and Socializing
The space is organized with simplicity and functionality in mind. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a DJ booth and an impressive vinyl collection, setting the tone for the musical experience that awaits. The center of the bar features an open dance floor, encouraging free movement and interaction, while bar counters on either side offer a selection of cocktails and snacks.
Acoustic Excellence in a Cozy Atmosphere
A key focus of the design was the acoustic quality of the space. Equipped with top-tier acoustic systems from devonojas, Bursa Bar immerses visitors in sound, creating an atmosphere akin to being inside a musical instrument. The architect envisioned the space as a giant music speaker or guitar, with the warmth of plywood surrounding guests in a cozy, inviting environment.
Subtle Eastern Aesthetics
The design subtly incorporates elements of Eastern style, featuring orthogonal lines, clean shapes, and a harmonious balance of horizontal and vertical elements. Plywood serves as the primary material, unifying the walls, ceiling, and furniture, while stainless steel accents in the countertops and chair legs add a touch of modernity. The result is a unique and serene atmosphere that complements the vibrant musical culture of the bar.
Lighting and Mood
Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the evening ambiance of Bursa Bar. The design combines accent lighting to create intimate seating areas with soft linear lighting that highlights the vinyl shelves and the exquisite selection of drinks. This thoughtful lighting design ensures that every guest feels special, with the ability to adjust the intensity to suit different moods across the bar.
Overcoming Design Challenges
One of the primary challenges in designing Bursa Bar was ensuring effective sound insulation, given the hotel rooms located directly above. This necessitated lowering the ceiling, which in turn allowed for the creation of a more intimate atmosphere. A lattice structure was added to accommodate lighting fixtures and ventilation systems, integrating seamlessly into the overall design.
Craftsmanship and Custom Design
Bursa Bar’s distinctive decor and furniture were crafted by skilled Ukrainian artisans, showcasing the region’s craftsmanship. The table lamps are sourced from &Tradition, while the music speakers were carefully selected from devonojas, ensuring a blend of high-quality design and functionality.
Bursa Bar exemplifies the seamless integration of contemporary Japanese aesthetics with a passion for music and social interaction. Located in the heart of Kyiv, this unique venue offers a warm and inviting space where vinyl enthusiasts, musicians, and cocktail lovers can gather to enjoy an immersive sensory experience.
