### The Vision Behind Lève Office Bar
Lève Office Bar, situated in the heart of Turin, is a striking blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality, conceived by the innovative Italian architect Fabio Fantolino. This unique venue draws inspiration from the design and culture of post-war American workplaces, creating a vibrant social space for professionals in the bustling city.
### Architectural Evolution: From Cafe and Bookshop to Cohesive Bar Experience
Originally built in the 1920s, the structure was previously divided into two distinct units: a café and a bookshop. Fantolino’s transformation creates a seamless interior divided into three interconnected spaces. Each area creatively references the feel of retro workplaces, resulting in a dynamic environment that caters to modern social and professional needs.
### Embracing Office Culture in Design
Fantolino aimed to reflect the office culture of the 1960s—an era when offices were seen as prestigious, well-designed environments. He states, “The 1960s were chosen as the reference period because they marked a time when offices were regarded as prestigious and carefully designed workplaces.” The bar’s concept cleverly mirrors today’s fluid work-life blend, providing a place for everything from breakfast to evening aperitivos.
### A Bold Entry: The Stainless Steel Bar
Upon entering Lève Office Bar, visitors are greeted by a standout monolithic stainless steel bar. Its commanding presence is complemented by a vibrant red enamel wall behind it, setting an energetic tone right from the start. This striking design choice evokes a sense of nostalgia while remaining relevant and contemporary.
### Textural Contrasts: Flooring and Seating Elements
As guests explore the bar, the sandy-hued herringbone brick floor leads them into a second area characterized by a green resin flooring. The seating arrangements feature banquettes upholstered in fawn leather, paired with red-topped café tables and sleek cantilever chairs crafted from chrome and brown leather. This thoughtful combination of textures adds depth and richness to the overall aesthetic.
### Multi-Dimensional Spaces for Varied Experiences
Lève Office Bar features a double-height main area for bar-goers, with additional seating nestled beneath the enchanting mezzanine. Here, the lower ceiling showcases mirrored panels that elegantly transform the traditional dropped ceiling into an eye-catching feature. The use of mirrors not only enhances the ambiance but also cleverly expands the visual space, creating a cozy yet open feel.
### Mimicking Office Dynamics: The Mezzanine
The mezzanine serves as an homage to traditional office layouts, introducing cubicle-like segments constructed from high-backed, boucle-upholstered sofas arranged back-to-back. While these partitions do not provide complete privacy, they contribute to an intimate atmosphere, evoking a sense of structured coziness that encourages conversation and social interaction.
### Illuminating the 1960s: Lighting Choices
The light fixtures throughout the bar reinforce the 1960s aesthetic. Pendant lights on the mezzanine, sconces, and illuminated panels in the dropped ceiling come together to create a warm, inviting glow. This careful consideration of lighting details enhances the overall mood, making it an inviting escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
### A Harmonious Color Palette
The neutral color scheme is punctuated by vibrant pops of green, red, and mustard, juxtaposed against flat enamel and shiny metallic surfaces. This interplay of colors and materials enriches the visual experience without overwhelming the senses, making Lève a fashionable and comfortable gathering spot.
### A Time Machine of Design
Fantolino describes his design intention as creating an immersive experience akin to stepping back into the 1960s. The playful nods to past office culture, combined with stylish, modern updates, foster an environment that feels fresh, inviting, and thoroughly captivating.
### An Invigorating Urban Retreat
With its clever design and inviting atmosphere, Lève Office Bar stands not just as a place to enjoy drinks and meals, but as a vibrant urban retreat for professionals seeking a break from their day-to-day activities. The architectural and design choices made by Fabio Fantolino ensure that every corner of the bar tells a story, making it a remarkable addition to Turin’s social landscape.
—
The focus of this article has been on detailing the various elements that define Lève Office Bar, from its architectural history to its contemporary design. Each paragraph highlights distinct aspects of the venue, maintaining an engaging and informative tone throughout.