R&D Cocktail Lab: Merging East and West for a Unique Bar Experience

Introducing a Bar Design that Blends Tradition and Modernity

The uniqueness of R&D Cocktail Lab lies in its ability to blend the East and the West, creating a space that is both modern and traditional, fashionable and retro. The low saturation gray façade design and the molecular link logo add a sense of mystery, making it impossible for passersby to resist the urge to step inside and explore.

The design team, led by Joy Chou, aimed to create a bar that not only offers a place for social gatherings but also provides a deeper cultural experience. By maintaining the original height and depth of the space, the bar allows customers to not only enjoy their time together but also immerse themselves in the rich culture of wine. Behind the bar, the integration of grilles, Chinese herbal medicine cabinets, and mirror displays creates a unique atmosphere where flavor cocktails are researched, developed, and customized exclusively for each customer.

The design of R&D Cocktail Lab presented several challenges. The elongated-shaped architecture with three narrow stairs required creative solutions to enhance the flow and visual appeal. The use of mirrors and metal materials, along with the variation in height of tungsten lightings, created an illusion of extension and openness, effectively improving the flaw of the original architecture.

R&D Cocktail Lab, located in Taipei, was completed in January 2015. This unique bar design has garnered recognition and was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2016. The design showcases outstanding expertise, innovation, and a remarkable level of excellence in blending tradition and modernity.

Image Credits: Figure x Lee Kuo-Min Studio