Janus: A Duality of Space and Experience

Junlin Zhang's Award-Winning Bar Design Unveils

Janus stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Junlin Zhang, a space that challenges the conventional perception of bars with its dualistic nature. This award-winning design, which clinched the Silver in the prestigious A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, is not just a place to enjoy whisky and cocktails; it's an immersive journey through contrasting atmospheres. The design's strength lies in its ability to provide patrons with more than two distinct spatial experiences, seamlessly integrated into a cohesive whole.

The inspiration for Janus was sparked by the interplay of light and shadow in the venue's location, prompting Zhang to envision a setting that morphs with the transition from day to night. The design narrative of Janus is deeply rooted in the concept of creating meaningful wholes from individual components, a philosophy that Zhang has masterfully translated into the bar's spatial design. The bar's unique properties lie in its social aspect and the client's desire for a space that defies literal interpretations, encouraging visitors to engage with the environment on multiple sensory levels.

Janus's realization involved a thoughtful consideration of spatial ambiance, encompassing elements such as sunlight, air, and material textures. Zhang's approach to the façade design on the first and second floors is a blend of postmodernism and contemporary styles, punctuated by a dramatic cantilever platform that proudly displays a classical sculpture. This juxtaposition of the pure black geometric blocks against the classical sculpture creates a powerful visual attraction, offering patrons a canvas for imagination.

The design's interaction with its audience is a deliberate and sensory-rich experience. Upon entering the first floor, visitors encounter a stark contrast between the interior space and the façade, which is a deliberate play on color, material, and form. The staircase, crafted from loose wood, introduces an auditory and tactile dimension to the ascent, guiding guests to the second floor where the ambiance aligns with Zhang's initial vision. The second floor is a harmonious blend of hard and warm elements, with wood veneer and mirrored stainless steel reflecting the dynamic activities within the space.

Janus, spanning 200 square meters, was brought to life in Changsha, China, over a three-month period from March to June 2023. The design team, led by Junlin Zhang, with WenLiang Liu and JingYu Zhang contributing as extension and rendering designers, respectively, worked in unison to realize this multifaceted project. The design research delved into the elusive nature of beauty and its various manifestations, drawing inspiration from the philosophies of Louis Kahn and the unpredictable outcomes of client and site-specific conditions.

Overcoming the challenge of creating a façade that harmonizes with both contemporary and classical features, Zhang's design for Janus is a celebration of contrast and unity. The bar's design is a narrative of spaces that are both independent and interconnected, inviting patrons to explore and interpret the environment beyond preconceived notions. With its sophisticated blend of retroism and experimental design, Janus serves as a beacon of innovation in the realm of interior space and design.