The interiors of vintage limousines informed this Montreal bar and restaurant, in which locally based Ivy Studio has combined red velvet and dark wood panelling.
Limousine opened in the Saint-Lambert suburb south of the Canadian city to cater to an influx of younger residents, providing “a bold and glamorous newcomer to the local dining scene” according to Ivy Studio.
Located on bustling Victoria Avenue, the unusually shaped footprint of a former cafe challenged the designers to create a workable layout while ensuring the restaurant feels atmospheric.
“The design draws inspiration from the refined interiors of vintage luxury limousines – evoking richness, comfort and timeless sophistication,” said the studio.
A central bar that follows the diamond geometry of the corner building’s plan produces a circulatory route around the perimeter.
Overhead, a lightbox bathes the bar area in a warm glow that highlights the green marble countertop and red velvet bar stools.
“Saturated in a deep amber hue, the glowing structure bathes the room in a cinematic warmth, radiating from the heart of the space and acting as a beacon visible from the street,” Ivy Studio said.
Velvet curtains also create a “theatrical” entrance from the smoked-glass vestibule that forms a buffer with the street.
Banquettes with tubular tan leather backs are tucked under the wraparound windows and accompanied by upcycled vintage chairs, which were refinished in a dark chocolate stain and reupholstered with mint green velvet.
Custom two-top tables feature glossy black tops and chrome details, and a single group table tucked into a corner reintroduces the green marble.
The floor is covered in black square mosaic tiles, while the ceiling has a golden-bronze hue that reflects the light.
Dark-stained wood panels with golden mirror inserts and cream details front the bar, and reappear around the service station.
This area for storing glassware and other tools also incorporates the striking green marble and leads to the kitchen area at the back.
A variety of pendants, sconces and table lamps create a layered lighting effect, and artworks and memorabilia link back to the limousine concept.
Glossy cream-and-black checkered tiles line the bathrooms, where vintage family photographs add personal touches to the ambiance.
“Limousine offers more than just fine dining – it is a mood, a memory and a marked shift for the city of Saint-Lambert,” said the studio.
Ivy Studio has completed a variety of hospitality venues in its home city, from an indoor golf club decorated in putting-green hues to a Middle Eastern restaurant outfitted with dramatic marble.
Other recent projects by the studio include the conversion of a historic bank building into offices for an ad agency and the transformation of a former print shop into creative spaces.
The photography is by Alex Lesage.
Project credits:
Design and architecture: Ivy Studio
Construction: Promel
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