Dive Bar in Marylebone: A Velvet Oasis
Located in the bustling heart of Marylebone, Dive, a subterranean cocktail bar designed by the innovative design studio Golem, is making waves with its unique aesthetic and experiential approach. This captivating venue blends sophistication with a tactile ambiance, making it a distinct spot for socializing.
Sleek and Inviting Design
At the core of Dive’s allure is its striking interior design. Golem, led by founder Ariel André, chose a bold palette dominated by soft red velvet, enveloping almost every surface from the seating to the walls. The juxtaposition of glossy finishes and tactile materials creates a sensory experience that captivates guests upon entry. The bar is not merely a space; it’s an evolving art piece that transforms with each patron’s interaction.
Dynamic Interaction
The essence of Dive is captured in André’s philosophy: “The bar is not finished at opening, it is finished nightly, by hands, shoes, spills.” This perspective elevates the notion of ‘wear and tear’ to an integral architectural element. Glossy surfaces are crafted to withstand everyday use, while the plush velvet aims to retain the imprints of those who occupy the space, embodying the memories of each night.
Two Distinct Zones
Dive is strategically divided into two zones—an inviting bar area and an intimate lounge. The bar area, illuminated and dynamic, features a sculptural design with clean lines, offering a view of expertly crafted cocktails. Guests are greeted by a curved cutout along the front of the bar, and the glossy surfaces amplify the ambient glow, creating an atmosphere that oscillates between lively and serene.
Descending into the lounge unveils a darker, cozier environment, designed for deeper conversations and personal connections. This corridor and lounge create a sensory transition that enhances the overall experience of the bar.
Comfortable and Flexible Seating
The lounge is outfitted with flexible seating influences that adapt to various social dynamics. Built-in benches, upholstered with loose cushions, encourage guests to arrange the space to their liking. André emphasizes that the furniture is designed for appropriation by guests, with bodies shaping the seating instead of the reverse.
The thought-provoking design means that even when unoccupied, seating carries the lingering imprints of previous patrons, creating a sense of continuity that enriches the atmosphere.
A Multifunctional Space
Golem’s design includes a unique area known as the “fun room,” which is luxuriously carpeted and accommodates diverse activities, from lounging to dancing. This multifunctionality is central to the bar’s conception, allowing it to cater to varying moods and social gatherings.
With quart-de-lune tables specifically created for the space, guests can select the layout that suits their needs—whether for couples or larger groups. The tables can stand alone or combine to form a larger social setting.
Acoustics and Entertainment
From a design perspective, acoustics play a vital role at Dive. The construction utilizes a blend of absorbent and reflective surfaces to tailor the auditory experience, ensuring that the lounge functions as an intimate listening room. A dedicated DJ booth close to the owner’s extensive vinyl collection offers a dynamic focal point for musical performances and social interactions.
Unique and Thoughtful Features
The bar also surprises with its non-gendered bathrooms, positioned around a banquette for guests to chat in a shared space. Enhanced by a one-way mirror, this feature adds an element of intrigue while maintaining privacy, allowing glimpses into the lounge.
Golem’s Ethos
Founded in 2021, the Paris-based studio Golem is known for its boundary-pushing architectural designs that blend art, design, and architecture. Dive is a testament to their innovative spirit. Past projects have further established Golem as a leader in creating environments that encourage connection and interaction.
Golem’s design for Dive not only transforms a subterranean space into an immersive experience but also invites guests to leave their mark, both literally and figuratively, in a vibrant atmosphere that thrives on human interaction.