Design studio Nice Projects has transformed the way we view cinema by bringing a slice of 1920s glamour to The Screening Room, a boutique cinema nestled within The Roof Gardens members’ club in Kensington, London. This 68-square-metre sanctuary celebrates the surrounding art deco architecture while inviting patrons to relax in an engaging, intimate atmosphere.
A Unique Experience
The Screening Room serves a small but mighty audience, showcasing cult classics and arthouse films. Unlike conventional cinemas, the design here leans heavily into the experience of comfort and relaxation. Creative director Sacha Leong articulated the vision: “We felt that we could design the space to be even more relaxed than a public cinema.” This is evident in the thoughtful arrangement of seating, featuring a variety of options: chaise longues at the front, deep armchairs with footrests in the middle, and full daybeds at the back, creating a diverse range of luxurious lounging spaces.
Thoughtful Layout and Details
The compact space accommodates just 20 seats, yet it makes effective use of every inch. Leong notes, “The limited size of the space meant that layouts had to work really hard and we had to include some clever details.” Each seat is paired with leather-topped side tables and custom-cast glass table lamps, ensuring that patrons not only find visual delight but functional convenience. A sweet station adds a whimsical touch, transforming the experience into an indulgent affair.
A Sensory Palette
Color choices play a vital role in crafting the cinema’s ambiance. Nice Projects aimed for a “warm, rich setting,” opting for a tonal material palette that includes burnt orange wall coverings, red velvet upholstery, and a dark terracotta wool carpet. The cinema lobby contrasts this warmth with a soft dark peach hue, lined with a striking silver curtain in front of the screen, setting the stage for cinematic adventures.
Material Juxtaposition
In this small space, material selection becomes an art form. The design team combined both soft and hard materials to enrich the tactile experience. Leong explains, “We wanted to pair the softness of the red and orange velvet seating with the sharpness of a brushed stainless steel bar with a yellow onyx counter.” This artistic choice not only enhances visual contrast but also invites guests to engage more deeply with the environment around them.
Luxurious Touches
The careful selection of materials extends beyond seating. Leather-wrapped handrails and saddle leather-topped side tables create a luxurious feel that resonates with both comfort and sophistication. The cinema also boasts intricate cast glass elements—from vintage door handles to wall sconces—each carefully curated to amplify the overall aesthetic. Additionally, alabaster wall lights from Pierre Chareau deliver a glow that enriches the moody atmosphere.
Capturing the Spirit of Cinema
Nice Projects, also known for their recent endeavor designing Selfridges’ private members’ club, masterfully captures an intoxicating blend of nostalgia and contemporary elegance. The design not only honors the historical significance of its 1920s art deco building but also aspires to bring back the joy and excitement associated with the cinema experience.
Overall, The Screening Room is a testament to the potential of design in enhancing cultural experiences. The visionary approach taken by Nice Projects exemplifies how thoughtful architecture and interior design can elevate our engagement with art and storytelling, all while providing a cocoon of comfort within a vibrant urban environment.
The photography featured in this project is by Andrew Urwin, capturing the enchanting details that make this cinema a unique destination.