A new restaurant and bar named Limousine has opened its doors in Saint-Lambert, a suburb south of Montreal. Designed by Ivy Studio, the establishment aims to bring a unique blend of glamour and sophistication to the local dining scene, drawing inspiration from the luxurious interiors of vintage limousines. This new venue caters to a growing demographic of younger residents moving into the area.
Key Takeaways
- Limousine restaurant in Saint-Lambert features a vintage limousine-inspired design.
- Ivy Studio used red velvet, dark wood, and green marble in the interiors.
- A central diamond-shaped bar is a focal point, reflecting the building's unique layout.
- The restaurant aims to attract younger residents to the Montreal suburb.
Design Inspired by Classic Limousines
Ivy Studio, a Montreal-based design firm, faced a challenge with the restaurant's location on bustling Victoria Avenue. The building, formerly a cafe, possessed an unusual, diamond-shaped floor plan. The designers transformed this constraint into a central feature, orienting the main bar to follow the building's distinctive geometry.
The interior design concept directly references the refined aesthetics of vintage luxury limousines. This influence is evident in the choice of materials and the overall ambiance. The goal was to create a space that feels rich, comfortable, and timelessly sophisticated.
"The design draws inspiration from the refined interiors of vintage luxury limousines – evoking richness, comfort and timeless sophistication," a representative from Ivy Studio stated.
Material Choices and Theatrical Elements
Upon entering, guests are greeted by red velvet curtains, creating a dramatic and theatrical entrance. This same plush fabric reappears on the bar stools, adding to the opulent feel. The vestibule features smoked glass, providing a buffer from the street outside and enhancing the sense of arrival.
Dark-stained wood panels, accented with golden mirror inserts and cream details, line the bar and service areas. These elements further reinforce the vintage luxury theme. The combination of textures and finishes contributes to the restaurant's distinct character.
Interesting Fact
The central bar's diamond shape mirrors the building's unique corner footprint, making it a key architectural and design feature.
A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
A lightbox suspended above the central bar bathes the area in a warm, amber glow. This lighting choice is deliberate, creating a cinematic warmth that radiates from the heart of the space. It also acts as a beacon, visible from the street, inviting passersby inside.
The green marble countertop of the bar is highlighted by this warm light, contrasting with the red velvet stools. This interplay of colors and materials adds depth to the design. The ambiance is designed to be both bold and glamorous, offering a fresh experience for local diners.
Seating and Dining Details
Tubular tan leather banquettes are positioned along the wraparound windows, offering comfortable seating with views of the avenue. These are paired with upcycled vintage chairs, which received a dark chocolate stain and new mint green velvet upholstery. This mix of new and repurposed furniture adds character and sustainability.
Custom two-top tables feature glossy black tops and chrome details, maintaining the sleek, luxurious aesthetic. A single group table, tucked into a corner, brings back the striking green marble, creating a cohesive design narrative throughout the dining areas.
Saint-Lambert's Evolution
Saint-Lambert, a suburb south of Montreal, has seen an influx of younger residents. Limousine aims to cater to this changing demographic, providing a new, sophisticated dining option that reflects modern tastes while embracing classic design.
Thoughtful Touches and Lighting Design
The flooring consists of black square mosaic tiles, providing a classic base that complements the rich materials above. The ceiling, painted in a golden-bronze hue, reflects the ambient light, enhancing the overall warmth and glow of the space. This careful attention to every surface contributes to the immersive experience.
The service station, used for storing glassware and other tools, also incorporates the green marble, seamlessly connecting it to the main bar area. This station leads directly to the kitchen, ensuring functional flow within the restaurant's layout.
- Layered Lighting: A variety of pendants, sconces, and table lamps create a multi-layered lighting effect, allowing for different moods and focal points.
- Personalized Decor: Artworks and memorabilia are strategically placed to reinforce the limousine concept, adding personal touches to the glamorous setting.
- Bathroom Details: The bathrooms feature glossy cream-and-black checkered tiles. Vintage family photographs adorn the walls, adding an unexpected, intimate touch to the overall ambiance.
Limousine is positioned as more than just a restaurant; it is presented as a mood and a memory, marking a significant shift for the city of Saint-Lambert. Ivy Studio has a track record of designing various hospitality venues in Montreal, from golf clubs to Middle Eastern restaurants, consistently bringing bold and unique visions to life. Their work on Limousine continues this trend, offering a distinctive new destination for dining and socializing.