Virserius Studio has achieved further shortlist success in the International Hotel & Property Awards 2015 with Bocca Di Bacco competing for the Restaurant (Global) Award.
Bocca Di Bacco is a casual yet refined dining establishment that offers a warm and rustic respite from the hectic New York streets outside. The space previously comprised two long narrows dark shops that were combined to create a great room with different moments that the patrons can enjoy. It is a place that suits different crowds from the family that comes in for weekend brunch to young professionals looking to unwind at dinner after a long day at work, to couples getting to know each other in a romantic setting. The space evokes a New England cottage meets New York City loft aesthetic with its white wood clapboards and red exposed brick.
Rustic wood paneled table tops are paired with classic bent wood Thonet chairs. Wire-brushed wood planked flooring anchors the space and highlights the columns. Custom designed black leather chesterfield banquettes with gleaming brass buttons line the south wall, where the existing brick has been scrubbed and restored, with up lighting installed to highlight its natural texture.
Soft linen custom designed pendants hang between banquettes and add softness to the overall lighting. White painted vertical wood slats with mirror slivers incorporated into the panels are installed on the center dividing wall and add the sparkle of reflected light in both the dining and bar spaces.
The curved footprint of the bar adds whimsy while allowing more interaction between patrons sitting there. Small intricate details can be discovered throughout the space. Custom lathed spindle columns cap off the bar millwork and spindle legs support the bar height tables. The ceiling is paneled with woven wallcovering with a red flower patterned appliqué.
Industrial inspired lanterns adorn the walls in the bar side adding a touch of rusticity. The walls are covered in a black shagreen-like textured wallcovering which creates a great backdrop for the white millwork to really pop.