Project: Temple Cocktail Bar
Architects: Kvadrat architects design studio
Design: Sergey Bekmukhanbetov, Rustam Minnekhanov
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Area: 1431 sf
Year of realization: 2023
Photos: Gleb Kramchaninov
Masters of image style: Rustam Minnekhanov, Sergey Bekmukhanbetov
Text: Ekaterina Parichyk
The speakeasy place with a 150-year-old root over the bar counter, decorations, collected at flea markets of different countries and a cocktail lab on the second floor. This bar is not a combination of walls, but a unique product that projects both the atmosphere and the interior.
The Temple Cocktail Bar is a testament to innovative design, thoughtful planning, and a deep understanding of the emotional and sensory experiences that contribute to a memorable space. Conceived by passionate bartenders and brought to life by Kvadrat Architects Studio, Temple transcends the conventional bar experience by focusing on the emotions and feelings it evokes in its guests, or “parishioners.” (This is how clients are called in the space).
“We decided to proceed step by step. The owners of the bar were bursting with ideas, sometimes they appeared spontaneously during the discussion, so we just had to get into the product and study potential guests: what emotional atmosphere and mutual connection they are waiting for, – designers and heads of the Kvadrat architects design studio Sergey Bekmukhanbetov and Rustam Minnekhanov say. – If you study the 3D visualization of the project, you understand how much the design has grown from the moment of idea to implementation, and it still continues evolving.”
Conceptualization and Design Philosophy: The creators of Temple envisioned a space that goes beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to create a unique atmosphere that resonates with their philosophy and passion for mixology. The absence of a traditional menu and the focus on personalized cocktails crafted after conversations with guests highlight the bar’s experimental nature and commitment to creating a bespoke experience.
Location and Exclusivity: The decision to locate Temple on the second floor of an office complex, without any external signage, adds to its allure and exclusivity. Guests must book in advance and navigate a locked door, ensuring that only those who truly appreciate the bar’s concept and atmosphere gain entry.
Authenticity in Design: Rather than attempting to mimic the aesthetics of an old temple, the design of Temple Cocktail Bar focuses on authenticity and primordiality. Exposed concrete, structural columns, and raw building materials serve as the foundation for creating a new image, reflecting the bar’s commitment to preserving the essence while embracing innovation.
Adaptive Design Choices: The decision to retain the existing porcelain stoneware flooring, despite initial plans to replace it with concrete, demonstrates a flexible and adaptive approach to design. The artistic stains and traces left by the removed tiles added an organic element to the overall atmosphere, enriching the story of the space.
Atmospheric Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the desired ambiance at Temple. Soft, muffled lighting, predominantly from candles, creates a sense of privacy, mystery, and magnetism. Zoning is achieved through exceptional candle lighting on each table, defining seating areas without the need for partitions or high-backed sofas.
Evolution and Authenticity in Decor: The design of Temple is conceived as a canvas that will evolve over time, acquiring signs of life and character. Unique decor items, rich in history and acquired during travels, add layers of authenticity and narrative to the space. The intentional use of materials that age gracefully, such as tanned genuine leather and aged wood, ensures that the interior will only grow more authentic and charming with time.
Metaphorical Accents: The 150-year-old tree root used as the centerpiece of the bar counter serves as a poignant metaphor, connecting the bar to its founders’ roots and adding a deeper layer of meaning to the overall atmosphere. It reminds guests of the importance of understanding and respecting the past while looking forward to the future.
In conclusion, The Temple Cocktail Bar is a masterclass in experiential design, where every detail is carefully considered to create a cohesive and immersive environment. By prioritizing emotions, atmosphere, and authenticity, Temple offers guests a truly unique and unforgettable experience that transcends traditional bar design.
Briefing note: The team of the design studio Kvadrat architects creates not just an interior, but a place of power where clients can discover their spiritual, mental and physical potential. They can reflect and comprehend the rush of what is happening, find some inspiration to conquer new peaks here. They get a timeless space that will become a piece of their cultural heritage and a meaningful part of their family history or business.
