HMV Cigar and Wine Bar: A Blend of Elegance and Innovation

Shanghai's Top-Floor Venue Redefines Dining with Panoramic Views and Unique Design

The design inspiration behind the HMV Cigar and Wine Bar is rooted in the cosmopolitan appeal of Shanghai's business district. The location, situated on the top floor of a glass-clad skyscraper, offers a panoramic view of the city's urbanscape. The design aims to capitalize on this asset, creating an environment that is both formal for high-profile clients and executives, and lively enough for groups of friends. The venue transitions seamlessly from energetic lunch hours to chatty happy hours and wine-fueled dinners.

The unique properties of the design lie in its split floor plan, dividing the space into a restaurant downstairs and an intimate lounge loft. This division provides balance and maximizes the enjoyment of the panoramic vistas from wraparound terraces. The restaurant features low round tables by picture windows, tall stools along the bar, and a double-ceilinged dining room with a long communal table. The loft, on the other hand, is a speakeasy-like cigar room, furnished with plush sofas and retro touches.

The realization of this design involved careful selection of materials and colors. The team used sultry lighting and textured surfaces to add luxe touches. A neutral color palette was chosen to keep the space open and roomy, with the exception of velvet furniture in cobalt blue. Burnt yellows were used for continuity, while dark slate and polished stone were chosen for their stylish and wear-resistant properties.

The technical specifications of the design also contribute to its uniqueness. The bar's lowered ceiling is compensated by tinted mirrors and artistic lighting. To avoid the staircase feeling too boxed-in, the geometric shelving behind the bar is equipped with recessed lights, serving as a stylish divider and a source of illumination.

The design faced challenges, particularly in maximizing the potential of the site's picture windows and soaring ceiling. However, the team successfully overcame these by using dark mirrors to create height and employing a split floor plan. The result is a venue that is formal enough for business events, but with enough character for groups of friends.

The HMV Cigar and Wine Bar is a testament to Tenniel Tsang's innovative design approach. It was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019, a recognition given to designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This design, admired for its strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcases a remarkable level of excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.