The Ship: A Rustic Modern Bar/Restaurant

A Unique Design Inspired by Nautical Elements

The inspiration for The Ship came from the client's vision of creating a bar/restaurant with a nautical theme. To achieve this, Robert Jamieson and his team embarked on a dramatic spatial transformation. The existing long, low ceiling ground floor space with a dark basement was completely reimagined into a hip industrial establishment with high ceilings.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was the limited allowable 'public' area within the bar due to occupancy and egress requirements. Instead of having excess back of house, the design team made the bold decision to remove about a third of the ground floor, opening up the space and creating a more inviting atmosphere.

Upon entering The Ship, guests are greeted by a subtly marked entry at the street, leading to a non-descript long corridor. As they proceed down the dimly lit corridor, a sense of anticipation builds until they reach the end, where a dramatic double height space unfolds before them. Descending into this space, guests feel as if they are entering the bowels of an old ship.

The materiality and design of The Ship subtly allude to its nautical inspiration. The walls are clad with a counterbalance of riveted aged zinc and reclaimed wood, reminiscent of the water tanks found on rooftops throughout New York City. The existing stone clad, light well behind the bar is back-lit, creating a captivating ambiance.

Reclaimed and repurposed materials play a significant role in The Ship's design. Custom booths are upholstered with reclaimed patchwork sailcloth, while Knoll armchairs are adorned with vintage navy blankets. The lighting installation features inverted antique ship ventilation shafts, adding a dynamic and unexpected element to the space. Even the stair treads and window frames were made from the floor joists that were removed during the renovation.

With a total area of 2,900 square feet spread over two floors, The Ship offers ample space for guests to enjoy their dining experience. The attention to detail and the use of unique materials and objects create a truly memorable atmosphere.

The Ship opened its doors in July 2015 in New York, NY. Since then, it has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. In 2016, The Ship was awarded the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This award recognizes the outstanding expertise and innovation demonstrated by the design, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

The Ship is a testament to Robert Jamieson's ability to transform a space and create a unique experience for guests. By drawing inspiration from 'The Ship' without being overly literal, Jamieson has successfully crafted a bar/restaurant that evokes the feeling of being on board a ship, while maintaining a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.

Image Credits: Sam Oberter Photography