LYNCH: A Gatsby-Era Salon by Day, Speakeasy Bar by Night

Reviving the Roaring Twenties in Taipei's Dual-Concept Space

LYNCH Salon and Bar is not just a space; it's a time machine. Designed by Hsin Hao Huang, this establishment transports its guests to the Jazz Age, a time of prosperity and cultural dynamism. During the day, it functions as a salon, offering a luxurious setting for haircuts and beauty treatments. As evening falls, it transforms into a bar reminiscent of old Shanghai, with its retro atmosphere and antique charm. This innovative concept is a testament to the versatility and creativity in modern interior design, blending two distinct functions into one seamless experience.

The design's strength lies in its attention to detail and historical accuracy. Huang has meticulously curated a space that reflects the glamour of the 1920s, with an abundance of mirrors creating an illusion of infinite space and grandeur. The use of vintage furniture, leather upholstery, and natural marble pays tribute to the era's opulence. By contrast, the bar area adopts a more subdued aesthetic, with faint lighting and mottled walls that evoke the mystique of a bygone era. This juxtaposition of the flamboyant and the understated makes LYNCH a groundbreaking design that not only serves its dual purpose but also tells a story.

Technologically, the design is realized through the use of brass, stone, glass, mirror, walnut, and Victorian Tile. These materials are not chosen solely for their visual appeal but also for their ability to age gracefully, adding character to the space over time. The salon chairs are designed to be spacious and comfortable, while the mirrors offer a 270-degree view, ensuring a premium haircutting experience. The lighting fixtures are strategically placed to mimic spotlights, enhancing the theatrical theme of the space.

One of the design challenges Huang faced was ensuring that the materials used would not only look authentic but also withstand the test of time. The brass finishes, for example, are expected to develop a patina over time, contributing to the nostalgic atmosphere. The white vintage tiles in the center of the space serve as a visual guide, leading guests through the salon and into the bar area, where layers of materials and lighting create an enchanting ambiance.

LYNCH Salon and Bar is a design that stands out for its unique properties and the experience it offers. It is a space where history and modernity coexist, where guests can indulge in the luxury of the past while enjoying contemporary services. This project, completed in 2022 in Taipei City, Taiwan, has been recognized with a Silver A' Design Award, highlighting its excellence in interior design and innovation.

The success of LYNCH Salon and Bar is a testament to Hsin Hao Huang's vision and expertise. It is a space that not only serves its intended function but also engages with its guests on a deeper level, inviting them to step back in time and immerse themselves in the allure of the Jazz Age. As a dual-concept venue, it stands as a beacon of design ingenuity and a celebration of the past's enduring influence on the present.