This bar interior is a recently completed re-design project by Atelier Veloso Architects.

The bar 'La Bohème' is located in the Rua Galeria de Paris, amidst the downtown area of Porto and uses warm wood to create an inviting space for customers across three levels.

Veloso sought to create an identity for La Bohème and found the answer in the colour and texture of wood, which also defines the space; providing depth to the structure’s design.

The bar spans three levels: the main floor, basement and a mezzanine. The latter establishes a visual relationship with the main floor, whilst the bar counter is on the main floor’s bigger span, next to the entrance door and public access.

"The previously adopted functional solution was maintained, although we opted to change the (only) existing counter’s location in order to give it a larger dimension, functionality and space for its customers. The involving wooden structure was maintained on the lower level (basement) as to create uniformity with the main floor, and a large wine showcase was added." say the atelier.

Outside, the building's facade is clad in granite ashlar:

"We assumed that the previous window frames were made of solid wood, as to the resemblance of some existing adjacent buildings. Changes made to the facade were solely at the level of framework and entrance span, combining an 'Afizélia' wood (natural colour) with colourless laminated glass."

Sleek and sophisticated outside, with a cocooning warm glow and a multi-level social space indoors.

Nice.

Photography José Campos.