Obscura

A commanding element in this courtyard is the wall of the adjacent building which bears examples of defensive architecture of the past.

The interior space of the bar communicates with the above courtyard through a four-leaf folding door which when open allows the interior space to accommodate the exterior. At the same time the two spaces communicate through an oversized window which thanks to a customized construction that extends upwards allows dialogue between the two spaces.

On the central axis of the interior space erected the structure of the bar.

In the case of Obscura Cocktail Bar, an unattached counter was chosen as a result of the intense desire of the bar owner, a pioneer in the genre of mixologist who dreamed of creating an island (cocktail station) in contrast to our conventional known bars. Its goal is the full transparency of all activities with the regulars free to move around the area observing, watching the preparation of drinks and cocktails and giving them the opportunity to experience the participation.

At the same level as the cocktail station and along the reclining window has been constructed a counter which allows the regulars of both exterior and interior spaces, to socialize with comfort as there are lined seats on either side.

The main element of the whole decoration of the space is a tile that simulates the effect of marble. This tile bears particularly strong black geometric shades on a white background and this intense dark pattern is consistent with the name OBSCURA of the bar.

The same finish was chosen for the lining of the horizontal counters of the back bar, as well as the monolithic volume of the free stand cocktail station. The above choice arose not only for aesthetic reasons, but, mainly because this modern material is completely detached from the traditional stone with which the surrounding walls are built, therefore it preserves the authenticity of the Old allowing to highlight its beauty without attempting to fake imitation in a space of great historical gravity.

The same lining extended to cover a created wall below the pre-existing external staircase of the courtyard, forming a storage structure, the entrance of which is not perceptible thanks to the built-in door.

The same tile was used to cover a free stand structure, which hosts an artificial illuminated palm tree, that acts as a fulcrum inside the courtyard.

Another distinguish element that distinguishes the whole decoration of the shop is the finish of copper which we observe along the back bar, from the lower side where the equipment extends, fully visible to the patrons. Copper finish is a special detail that leads away from the usual INOX. Copper touches also dominate the countertops at the cocktail station, the sink faucet and this note extends to the central sign of the bar which is suspended on one of the walls that surround the courtyard, as well as the table and chairs.

As far as the lighting of the interior is concerned, a particularly impressive crystal chandelier, with its metal elements also made of copper, occupies a despotic position in the centre of the cocktail station.

On the axis of the chandelier and on either side of it, along the back bar were created three illuminated arches, intended for positioning of bottles with spirits. Their lighting served both the lighting of the main room and the highlighting of the pattern of the tile with which their background was invested.

For the intangible lighting, circular sconces were selected, i.e. parallel circles along the walls that surround the courtyard.