The Whisky Bar in Taiyuan, North China, is a shining example of how thoughtful lighting can transform a space. Designed by JSPA Design, this project reimagines two floors of a commercial podium into a unified whisky and cocktail bar, blending brutalist architecture with intimate lighting to create an extraordinary experience.
The lighting design plays a crucial role in bridging the industrial aesthetic with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The cast-in-place concrete facade, with its striking arches, sets the tone by drawing attention through its commanding presence. These arches, illuminated subtly, create a rhythmic visual flow, accentuating the raw materiality of the concrete while inviting curiosity from passersby.
Inside, lighting becomes both functional and atmospheric. The ground floor features a curved concrete arch ceiling, concealing mechanical systems while providing a seamless backdrop for the ambient glow. Light filters through the space to highlight key architectural elements, such as the long concrete bench along the facade, which serves as a transitional feature between the bar’s interior and the bustling street. Folding windows allow light to spill outward, breaking the boundary between indoors and outdoors and enhancing the bar’s connection to the cityscape.
On the second floor, the lighting takes on a softer, more intimate character. Steel shelving, designed to display whisky bottles, is strategically lit to create alcoves of warmth and focus. These illuminated spaces draw attention to the products while fostering a sense of privacy and exclusivity. Concrete arches, wrapping from walls to ceilings, are enhanced by subtle lighting that highlights their sculptural quality and creates a cocoon-like environment for patrons.
The interplay of materials and lighting is central to the Whisky Bar’s success. While the concrete walls and ceilings convey strength and permanence, the lighting design introduces a layer of softness that balances the space. The grey brick flooring reflects a subtle glow, reinforcing the connection between the bar and the public domain. In contrast, warm materials like oakwood and leather, highlighted by gentle lighting, add a tactile comfort that invites lingering.
By prioritising "invisible light"—fixtures carefully hidden to prevent glare—JSPA Design ensures visual comfort without compromising the ambiance. The result is a space where light does more than illuminate; it defines, enhances, and transforms, making the Whisky Bar a masterclass in the art of lighting design.
