Beijing
,
China

Union

Bar & Lounge
,
Est.
Beijing
,
China
Bar & Lounge
,
Est.

About

Union, located in The Opposite House in Beijing, evokes 20th century modernism with a global twist. The Opposite House resides in the Sanlitun district, known as the heart of Beijing’s diplomatic community, which has become the preferred neighborhood for socializing, private gatherings and social clubs.
With that in mind, and in addition to the strong contemporary art focus the House Collective has, the space and name were inspired by Lucie Rie, a 20th century modernist potter, who used her studio not just as a workspace, but also as a versatile social club and salon – a place to gather, meet, exchange and unite. Union aims to provide the simple elegance of a well-executed hospitality experience where whimsy and beauty are combined with a strategic layout and methodical organization to promote easy flow. Channeling the myriad of international expos, architectural frames made of unadorned, yet beautiful materials showcase artwork, sculptures, and objects, drawing in and engaging guests while allowing the space to evolve through the passage of time.
Sleeper AHEAD Asia Awards

Best Bar, Club, Lounge finalist

LOCATION
Beijing
,
China
Size
3,875 ft² / 360 m²
CaTEGORY
Food & Beverage
Client
Swire Properties
Keys
Concept Narrative

Studio Society

Our muse, British Potter Lucie Rie, whose work has been described as cosmopolitan, often hosted salons in her studio, and was famously known for offering teas, cakes, and intellectual conversation. Her beautiful wooden studio is surrounded by shelves of provocative works. We imagine a secret society of politicians, writers, poets, and musicians would gather here for a taste of freedom from social and political constraints. We take this one step further and layer in a more global perspective, finding inspiration in The Paris Expo of 1925, where many ideas of the international avant-garde in the fields of architecture and applied arts were presented for the first time.
Open Gallery
Lucie Rie in her studio

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"A suitably soigne setting."

Wallpaper*

To See or Not To See

Embracing the idea of the studio, the unity of the long, expansive space was maintained with a main protagonist – a linear bar and communal table at the center anchored by eclectic lounge areas at both ends. The bar is designed to transform from day to night. This dramatic transition illustrates the flexible work-to-play sensibility and features hidden elements such as a mini bar cart, herb wall, spice rack, transformable liquor wall, and integrated DJ booth. A semi-private dining area is surrounded by an unadorned metal mesh screen that makes a clear distinction between different social zones, creating the feeling of a private or even secret space.
A series of metal mesh and brass rod screens delineate distinct social zones. The pill-shaped cutouts align as one crosses the thresholds, creating a notably satisfying effect.
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Awards & Accolades

Best Bar, Club or Lounge finalist: Union
Sleeper AHEAD Asia Awards
"Defines elegance and polished hospitality."
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