The Tiny House: A Multifunctional Traveling Bar

Gradient Experiential's Award-Winning Mobile Bar Inspired by Japanese Craftsmanship

Introducing The Tiny House, a mobile bar designed by Gradient Experiential. Inspired by the popular Shinjuku Golden Gai region and the tiny house movement, this design is a physical manifestation of the "House of Suntory" brand, blending Japanese tradition with modern touches. This multifunctional traveling bar has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Event and Happening Design Award in 2020.

The Tiny House is a unique design that captures the spirit of the brand and the attention of event-goers. The sustainable and progressive tiny house has been transformed into a transportable and elegant Japanese bar, offering guests a high form of Japanese hospitality. The house features two micro bars inside and a hospitality lounge outside with a highball bar. The outdoor area also includes interactive elements such as a kinetic sand table, a bamboo wishing tree, lounge furniture, a TV for brand content, and a spiral staircase to the rooftop.

The design and build of the Tiny House posed several challenges. It had to provide multiple experiences within a limited footprint, comply with state regulations, offer flexibility based on the target festival environment, adhere to truck weight limitations, and embody the elevated brand ethos. Despite these challenges, the final experience succeeded in educating festival-goers about new products and creating a bond with the elevated brand.

The Tiny House was built using a variety of materials, including cypress wood, faux concrete, tempered glass, semi-gloss black powder-coated metals, semi-gloss automobile paint, composite wood decking, removable black wood paneling, shoji paper, and linen textured wall covering. The 20ft long structure meets all legal codes nationwide to pass as a house and contains features such as hidden wheels, a closable clam shell, spiral stairs, built-in HVAC, a generator for self-sufficient electric supply, and a hand sink and ice storage.

The Tiny House began its journey in Brooklyn, NY, on June 1st, 2019, at the last ever Pop Up dinner festival. It is currently on tour across the United States, visiting cities like Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles, Oakland, and San Francisco. The design project was led by a team of experts, including Creative Director Anthony Coppers, Design Director Jennifer De Fouchier, and Designers Yu-Han Wang and Anna Pacult.

The Tiny House is more than just a mobile bar; it's an immersive experience that symbolizes Japanese hospitality. It offers a zen and calming experience for guests, providing an escape from the traditional chaos of a festival. The interior features soothing music, nature-inspired color tones, and AC to escape the summer heat. Each interior bar features 5 comfortable seats that face the main bartender, allowing guests to learn more about the spirits, cocktails, and Japanese culture. Furthermore, a rooftop lounge space is designed to host VIP guests and media to engage more deeply with the brand and its ambassadors.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Gradient Experiential
Image Credits: Gradient Experiential
Project Team Members: Creative Director: Anthony Coppers Creative & Design Director: Jennifer De Fouchier Designer: Yu-Han Wang Designer: Anna Pacult Fabrication Manager: Paulius Daunoras Project Director: Colin McKenzie Project Manager: Victoria Pache Production Manager: Jackie Hsu Production Coordinator: Marissa Astolfi
Project Name: The Tiny House
Project Client: Gradient Experiential


The Tiny House IMG #2
The Tiny House IMG #3
The Tiny House IMG #4
The Tiny House IMG #5
The Tiny House IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant