CHALLENGE

Tasked with the challenge to transform the former Citrus club into an energetic ping pong bar and late-night liquor venue. A new boozy, vibrant playground to Edinburgh’s nightlife scene for students, young professionals and serious music lovers.

 

APPROACH

Working directly with the owners we dug deep and got under their skin to understand their vision for the space. The inspiration for the bar come club, came from New York’s eclectic & repurposed warehouse venues. We wanted to strip out the existing black box rooms and concealed windows to breathe life back into the space. Opening up the front façade and repurposing the existing windows to their original state, let light flood through the front bar area and draw people inside when passing.  Reworking the existing bar and using a combination of solid and natural finish to create exciting contrasts was key to enhancing the concept.

 

When removing the perimeter walls within the Main club room, we discovered hidden gems and historic details; from original tiled walls dating back to the 1930’s, when the venue was used as a rehearsal room for the neighbouring lyceum theatre, to an increased 1.5M head height and ornate cornicing. These features had to be cleaned up and remain on show. Contrasting to these Architectural features we set out to add layered details to bring an urban, and industrial aesthetic. The talented team at House of Hyena, Edinburgh created bespoke artwork installations within the main bar and corridor which pay tribute to RnB and Hip Hop legends. Hand applied graffiti work to the WC’s and main room dance floor create exciting back drops to the open space.