ballroom by bc


Property of Barbary Coast

- North Canal, Singapore

the ballroom brief


Based on the eponymous drinking holes of San Francisco's Barbary Coast area during the gold rush of the 1840s. We wanted to explore both ends of the spectrum of bars available during this time. Firstly there were DeadFalls, the lowest of the low, cheapest of the cheap. Often hastily constructed in the hulls of beached ships, in alleys or lanes and existed until they were shut down, shot down or burned down - they provided a place where prejudice was nowhere to be found and everyone was welcome.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, upstairs, you will find the ballrooms of the day. When miners struck gold they got suited and booted into the finest finery and headed to the nearest ballroom. These were often run by madams, served premium products and afforded a little more privacy from prying eyes on the street. There are enough nooks and dark corners for privacy while still providing a high energy space to let one's proverbial hair down and imbibe on. 

Conceptualise, design and create a fully-fledged food and beverage space, spread over two floors of a historic shophouse in the heart of Singapore’s Boat Quay.

From the schematic design to the interior details we were tasked to create a layout that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Full concept creation and exploration along with branding exercise, collateral design, menu design and the unique beverage offerings. Practical work surfaces are to be included in this design phase to create a bar that is structured, efficient and durable.

the solution

the solution

The overall venue concept was created with a clear story and reference points in mind. The idea was to create a venue that could expand into a lifestyle brand, or other markets, if and when the time came.


We created the schematic plan based around structural workflow dynamics ensuring a space that it as aesthetically impactful as it is efficient. Full stainless steel work spaces and bar stations were created specifically for the space in order to improve productivity per unit of labour. Interior design, sourcing and styling along with full FF&E. Interior styling recommendations, music styling and uniform design were used to create a cohesive look and feel across the board.

Our standard training suite covers technique and movement basics along with theory 101 in spirit and cocktail categories. We touch on the psychology of service and the art of hospitality, prep training and the menu implementation.

the build

SCHEMATIC DESIGN & GUIDE

STATION DESIGN

LAB CREATION

STRUCTURAL WORKFLOW DYNAMICS

the brand

CONCEPT

BRAND DESIGN

MENU DESIGN

INTERIOR STYLING

PHOTOGRAPHY STYLING

UNIFORM

MUSIC

the journey

STAFFING & TRAINING

MARKET STRATEGY

BEVERAGE DEVELOPMENT

BAR WORKFLOW DYNAMICS

the perfect result

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deadfall