Being the very best in the interior design industry means setting a new benchmark that others aspire to and admire. It's about creating spaces that evoke envy and awe, blending creativity with functionality in the most vibrant ways. The Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar, designed by Studio Guilherme Bez for Andrè Cardella, has achieved just that. This remarkable project has been recognized as the NY Design of the Year in the 2024 NY Architectural Design Awards. Under the category of Restaurant & Bar, it stands out for its stunning and lively interior, capturing the essence of top-tier design in its inaugural season.
The name Elixir evokes the idea of a magical potion or concoction, often associated with delightful effects on those who partake. At the Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar, the goal is to bring happiness to its guests. A standout feature of the design is the tree of life, crafted entirely from reforested wood. Its roots extend beneath the glass floor, while a grand log supports LED-lit boughs and vibrant flowers that reach up to form a stunning crown on the main salon ceiling. This imaginative and vibrant design creates an enchanting atmosphere that perfectly aligns with the restaurant’s name.
Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar offers three distinct areas, each promising a unique experience: the balcony, the main salon, and a dedicated event salon. Highlights include a mesmerizing hall of mirrors and a striking golden bar set against a backdrop of repurposed coconut shells. The Mediterranean Sea comes to life in a captivating salt-water aquarium, while hand-painted artwork adorns the hallway leading to lavatories crafted from a luxurious blend of marble and coconut panels.
Elixir masterfully contrasts natural and sophisticated elements, creating a harmonious balance that exudes comfort and elegance. With cutting-edge lighting technology, a commitment to sustainability, and unparalleled sensory experiences, this restaurant invites guests to indulge in a truly extraordinary dining journey. Every detail, from the décor to the ambiance, is designed to enchant and delight, making each visit to Elixir unforgettable.
The array of textures and artisanal details throughout Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar make this project truly one-of-a-kind. The expansive tree, a central feature, spreads across much of the restaurant with its illuminated roots embedded in the wooden floor. Handmade flowers of various sizes adorn the branches, crafted from wavy, intertwined wood.
LED lighting, strategically installed along the branches and roots, is programmed to move, creating a lifelike effect reminiscent of veins pulsing with life. These elements combine to create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, adding a spectacularly lively and enchanting ambiance to the restaurant. This careful attention to detail and craftsmanship enhances the overall experience, making each visit to Elixir a delightful sensory journey.
Art and culture play a significant role in Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar, with captivating photographs by an English photographer displayed as a unique curtain and an artistically hand-painted corridor adding vibrant flair. Sustainability is seamlessly woven into the design, evident in the reforested wood used for the magnificent tree, and the repurposed coconut shells decorating the bar and lining the bathroom walls. This magical and enchanting venue has introduced a novel way for people to enjoy an evening, blending eco-conscious elements with artistic expression.
Studio Guilherme Bez has demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity, earning them prestigious recognition for their work on the Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Their innovative use of sustainable materials, combined with an artistic vision that seamlessly blends natural elements with sophisticated design, has set a new standard in the industry. This accolade celebrates their outstanding achievements and underscores their commitment to pushing the boundaries of interior design.
Entry Title: Elixir Restaurant & Lounge Bar
Entrant Company: Studio Guilherme Bez
Client: Andrè Cardella
Winning Category: Interior Design - Restaurants & Café
Uncover the distinguished winners of the 2024 NY Architectural Design of the Year and explore their remarkable and innovative achievements.