Hollaway Studio is an architectural and interior design practice, specialising in bar design, that embraces the past, the present, and the future and places people and feeling at the core of its architecture philosophy.
The bar sector is very familiar to Hollaway. We have designed and built many projects over the years including bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels in Kent and the Southeast of the UK. We create ambitious designs that reflect the surroundings focused on how people use spaces and flow through a building. Working closely with our clients, our team of architects and interior designers realise your brief and aspirations to create a successful and memorable guest experience.
Design begins with feeling – for place, for the past, for the needs and wants of the now, and for a future that matters. It listens. It empathises. It’s pragmatic. It’s an understanding that informs everything we do. It makes buildings that work – truly, beautifully. This is how we approach all bar design projects.
A bar design practice is nothing without its people, and the very best practices are those in which everyone has a voice – however different it may be. We are extremely fortunate Hollaway is exactly this: an extraordinary bunch of thinkers, talkers, and doers. These are the people that get buildings made.
As example of how a single and relatively small building can have an enormous and enduring effect on its host community, Rocksalt takes some beating. We wanted to make sure that Rocksalt would be success – as a business, as a landmark building, and most importantly as a source of local pride.
Hollaway’s approach to bar design always starts with people and place. How does a building contribute to the community it will inhabit? How will people interact and engage with the architecture created in this space? Under his leadership and hands on approach Guy Hollaway has created a design-led Practice committed to innovative building solutions, with work ranging from prestigious one off commissions to large scale regeneration projects.
The RIBA award-winning bar design practice has built its reputation working on a wide array of projects, including a cutting-edge skate park, the world’s first heritage theme park, a bespoke artist’s studio in an open field, and a high-end seafood restaurant. The breadth of these projects may be wide, but each one brings the perfect balance of playfulness and sincerity, with a firm focus on placemaking, sustainability and the experience of the individuals who will use the space.
London
10A Acton Street WC1X 9NG
+44 (0)20 7096 5425
Kent
The Tramway Stables, Rampart Road
Hythe CT21 5BG
+44 (0)1303 260 515
Elevating Entertainment: Crafting Unconventional and Invigorating Bar Designs
We believe that every space tells a story, and bars are no exception. More than places to enjoy a drink, bars are social hubs, havens of relaxation, and, above all, experiences. We strive to create bar designs that reflect these multifaceted identities, shaking up the traditional bar scene with a twist of creativity and innovation. Let us take you on a journey through our unique approach to bar design.
Defying Design Stereotypes
At the heart of our design process is an unwavering commitment to challenging the expected. What if a bar wasn’t just a bar but a multi-sensory journey? What if it could transform from a coffee hub in the daytime to an elegant cocktail lounge at night? These are the kind of questions that spark our imagination and set the foundation for our groundbreaking designs. We’ve designed bars that resemble underwater caverns, vintage libraries, and even floating spaceships. The idea is to engage patrons with an unforgettable visual narrative that transcends the standard bar experience.
Fostering Social Connection
In all our projects, we pay special attention to fostering social connection. After all, a bar is a place where relationships are kindled, stories are shared, and memories are created. To this end, we strive to design spaces that encourage interaction and camaraderie. We often experiment with the layout, creating a variety of seating zones – from intimate nooks for quiet conversations to communal tables for lively group discussions. It’s all about creating a social landscape that caters to a variety of patron needs and preferences.
Ambiance — The Silent Storyteller
Ambiance is a silent storyteller, setting the mood and tone of the bar. To craft the perfect ambiance, we delve into a careful selection of lighting, music, textures, and colours. We may design a bar with warm, low lighting to evoke a sense of coziness and intimacy, or use vibrant colours and dynamic lighting to create an upbeat, energetic atmosphere. This attention to detail extends to the tactile experience as well. The feel of the bar counter, the weight of the glass, the comfort of the seating — each element is thoughtfully curated to enhance the overall experience.
Incorporating Function with Aesthetics
While we aim to push the boundaries of aesthetics, functionality is never compromised in our designs. A great bar design seamlessly integrates style with practical aspects such as flow of movement, ease of service, sound acoustics, and durability of materials. We aim for designs that are as practical for the staff as they are engaging for the patrons. This includes planning for ample storage, efficient back bars, and easy maintenance, ensuring that the bar operates smoothly even at peak times.
Sustainability — A Core Ethos
As part of our commitment to sustainable design, we incorporate environmentally friendly practices in our bar designs wherever possible. This includes using locally sourced materials, incorporating energy-efficient lighting and equipment, and even designing ‘green’ bars with living walls or rooftop gardens.