Artifact Bar

Nelson Chow's Artifact Bar emerges as a sculptural interior environment where organic biomorphic forms in warm ochre and raw umber tones create an enveloping spatial experience that draws the eye inexorably toward the illuminated bar display at the compositional terminus, the symmetrical arrangement establishing a powerful central axis reinforced by the warm walnut flooring that functions as a visual corridor guiding movement through the space, the curvilinear walls rendered in what appears to be smooth plaster or microcement exhibit a matte, stone-like finish with subtle textural variation suggesting hand-applied craftsmanship, the palette operates within an analogous harmony of earth tones ranging from pale sand through caramel to deep chocolate brown, punctuated by the cool luminescence of backlit shelving displaying amber-hued bottles that provide chromatic counterpoint, the lighting design demonstrates sophisticated layering with concealed cove illumination washing the curved walls to emphasize their sculptural relief while intimate table lamps with mushroom-shaped metallic shades create pools of warm light at the intimate seating alcoves, the spatial construction employs a one-point perspective with the vanishing point positioned at the glowing bar shrine creating a processional experience reminiscent of sacred architectural traditions, the ceiling treatment introduces dramatic darkened voids that appear to float above the luminous walls creating a sense of compression and expansion that activates the vertical dimension, the deep brown leather upholstery of the banquette seating provides textural contrast against the smooth plastered surfaces while cream-colored bar stools suggest organic ceramic or stone materiality, edge behaviors throughout the composition favor soft transitions with curved forms flowing seamlessly into one another creating an almost womb-like enclosure that suggests comfort and refuge, the overall atmospheric resonance evokes mid-century modernist interiors with their celebration of organic form while simultaneously suggesting ancient cave dwellings or eroded geological formations, establishing a timeless quality that transcends specific period attribution

Artifact is a speakeasy bar hidden behind a secret passage inside BaseHall, Hong Kong’s newest dining destination and luxury food hall in the heart of Central. Inspired by the rhythm and repetition of surreal geometry and the serene atmospheres found in underground cistern. Artifact is a mysterious yet alluring destination transporting the guests into a different realm. A striking contrast to the busy food hall outside, guests will find themselves in a mysterious yet alluring space, making it an unforgettable and out-of-this-world experience.