In a city known for its vibrant culture and design scene, Montreal Design Week offered an exciting glimpse into the future of hospitality and creative spaces. The collaboration between Menu Extra and Atelier Zébulon Perron resulted in a captivating temporary bar, Bar Extra, that served as a stylish social hub during the festival. This unique project showcases the potential for design to transform everyday spaces into extraordinary experiences.
The Vision
The concept behind Bar Extra was to create an organic gathering place, a haven where people could connect, unwind, and engage in meaningful exchanges. Located in Montreal's Mile End neighborhood, the bar transformed a ghost kitchen into a vibrant social center, inviting the creative community to linger and immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere.
A Colorful, Futuristic Space
Atelier Zébulon Perron brought their signature high-contrast style to the space, with dark teal walls and purple carpets creating a vibrant backdrop. The use of mirrors and graphic design added an element of playfulness, while the custom chandelier took center stage. Designed by Lambert & Fils, this celestial light fixture was a masterpiece, featuring mirrors and vertical bands of light that created a futuristic, almost otherworldly ambiance.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the attention to detail. The crossbeams supporting the chandelier were cleverly utilized to hold small ledges for drinks and food, a practical yet aesthetically pleasing solution. This attention to functionality within a visually stunning space is a testament to the designers' skill.
A Temporary UFO Landing
Zébulon Perron described the space as a "UFO" landing on the strip for a few days, and this analogy captures the ephemeral nature of the installation perfectly. The flashing lights and smoke machines during the event added to the otherworldly atmosphere, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue. It's a bold statement, and one that invites guests to step into a different realm, even if just for a moment.
Grounded in Montreal's History
While the design of Bar Extra leans into the future, it also pays homage to Montreal's past. The visual language developed by Menu Extra draws from the city's institutions of the 1980s, creating a unique blend of retro and futuristic elements. This balance between the past and future is a theme that runs through many of the events during Montreal Design Week, such as the exhibition featuring furniture made from the recycled roof of the Montreal Olympic Stadium.
A Growing Trend
Temporary exhibitions centered around hospitality have become a popular feature at recent design weeks, and for good reason. These pop-up experiences offer a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of design, food, and social interaction. Bar Extra is a prime example of how these temporary installations can create memorable, immersive environments that leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
Bar Extra showcases the power of design to transform spaces and create social connections. It's a testament to the creativity and innovation of the design community in Montreal, and a glimpse into the future of hospitality. As we continue to explore the potential of temporary installations, projects like Bar Extra remind us of the importance of creating spaces that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impact.
