Exploring the Allure of Barcelona’s Speakeasy: Focacha by Isern Serra

In the vibrant landscape of Barcelona, a new speakeasy bar named Focacha has emerged, designed by the insightful Spanish designer Isern Serra. This bar exudes an ambiance that transports patrons back to the retro-futuristic world of the 1960s and early 1970s, characterized by the iconic works of designers like Verner Panton. It’s more than just a cocktail bar; it’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of a significant era in Barcelona’s nightlife.

A Tribute to Barcelona’s Nightlife History

Focacha is the latest venture from Grupo La Confitería, a group dedicated to revitalizing hospitality spaces. Serra’s design pays homage to a time when Tuset Street, where the bar is located, served as a cultural hub for a group known as the “gauche divine.” This eclectic mix of young, liberal professionals brought life to the streets, and Serra aimed to echo this vibrancy in his design.

The Speakeasy Experience

Entering Focacha is a theatrical experience in itself. Hidden behind the facade of a traditional focacceria that has been serving Italian bread for over fifty years, guests make their entrance through a cleverly designed refrigerator. This clever entrance adds a sense of mystery and excitement, perfectly setting the tone for what lies ahead.

Artful Design Elements

The interior of the bar boasts multi-coloured modular furniture inspired by Panton’s iconic Visiona installations. With shades ranging from yellows to reds, a sequence of seven organically shaped modules creates intimate nooks for small groups, inviting conversations and connections.

On the opposite side of the room, a sleek stainless-steel bar catches the eye, its rounded edges reflecting the vibrant décor and contributing to the overall dynamic atmosphere. The entirety of the space is enveloped in a plush carpeted ceiling and walls, serving both a design and acoustic purpose.

Capturing the Spirit of the Era

Isern Serra emphasizes that the design was influenced by the spirit of freedom and creativity that flourished during the late 1960s and early 1970s. He states, “We were inspired by Panton because his creative language perfectly reflects the optimistic, experimental, and progressive spirit of the time.” This intention propels Focacha beyond mere aesthetics; it aims to evoke a strong emotional response from its guests.

The DJ Room: A Marriage of Nostalgia and Futurism

One of the standout features of Focacha is its DJ room, which transports visitors to a realm where 1960s nostalgia meets a dystopian future. The room, enveloped in curved banquettes, pays homage to psychedelic designs of the past while integrating modern technology to enhance the experience.

Dynamic lighting, created by strategically placed openings in the domed ceiling, transforms the atmosphere from intimate to electrifying as the night progresses. The inclusion of lighting fixtures, including Panton’s renowned Flowerpot VP2 and Panthella lamps, underscores the carefully curated ambiance.

Sculptural Approaches to Space Design

The complex curves and organic forms found throughout Focacha demanded a sculptural approach to construction. Serra explains that rather than adhering to conventional architectural practices, his team focused on shaping volumes and forms to deliver a fluid and immersive spatial experience. Each curve is meticulously crafted to serve a purpose – enhancing both the visual and experiential aspects of the venue.

Creativity in the Heart of Barcelona

Isern Serra’s studio, based in the Poblenou neighborhood of Barcelona, reflects the designer’s commitment to creativity and innovation. Renowned for employing vibrant, essential forms paired with Mediterranean influences, Serra has also executed other remarkable projects such as a gallery-like apartment renovation and a bakery featuring cave-like walls.

Visitors to Focacha are welcomed into a space that transcends the ordinary, promising an experience that blends artistry, nostalgia, and contemporary design. This speakeasy is not just about sipping cocktails; it’s about becoming part of a living piece of history, igniting curiosity and inspiring a sense of wonder from the very first moment.