A dramatic, theatrical space with the essence and energy of Studio 54
Encore Theatre Bar, a vibrant jewel situated within the historic walls of The Sefton Hotel, where theatrical glamour meets contemporary design. Adjacent to the majestic Gaiety Theatre, this sophisticated bar & brasserie pulses with an electric energy that successfully bridges past and present.
Rising from the ashes of the beloved Sir Norman's Theatre bar, Encore encompasses modern sophistication, reimagining its historic space for a new era of entertainment. Rehab Squared had previously redesigned the former space, Sir Normans Theatre in 2019 so were thrilled to be invited by the new owners to redesign the interior for a second time in August 2024. The directive was simple yet boldly ambitious: "make it sexy." The result? Encore Bar and Brasserie - a seductive symphony of design where red on red heat, passion and desire intertwine to create an intoxicating atmosphere.
The transformation side-stepped traditional hospitality design, drawing inspiration from the alluring world of nightclub architecture. Rehab Squared crafted an immersive sanctuary where every detail - from the sultry lighting to the intimate seating arrangements - was choreographed to enhance the guest experience.
One of the main directives of the project was to eliminate the cavernous feeling created by the high ceilings and establish a more intimate, inviting atmosphere. Geometric frames were constructed around the fixed seating areas, creating open canopies effectively fostering an intimate atmosphere while also introducing a modern geometric pattern to the vertical plane. Interestingly, in other areas, the opposite approach was taken. The height of the existing bar shelving was extended vertically to the ceiling and wrapped along the adjacent wall. Due to its epic scale, the new bar shelving evokes the ambiance of a library in a prestigious gentleman's club, further enhancing the sense of exclusivity and mystique. The shelving was painted in a vibrant red hue, incrementally brighter in tone than the surrounding walls, with each shelf illuminated by LED strip lights to amplify it’s warm, radiant glow. The impressive scale and bold red colour of the new bar installation creates a striking focal point that immediately captures attention upon entering the room.
Striking neon red signs illuminate the space with theatrical flair, displaying playful messages like "Best seat in the house" and "For the love of the show" and "That's the spirit." These glowing installations perfectly capture the venue's dramatic essence, while larger-than-life custom artwork showcases the legendary Studio 54, dazzling disco balls, and photographs of iconic celebrity revellers pulse with nostalgic hedonism. In a further homage to the legendary Studio 54, the bay windows come alive with striking black and white photographs, capturing the raw energy of the iconic club's heyday.
These over-exposed images, featuring party-goers lost in the moment, were transferred onto the panel blinds, creating a dynamic visual narrative. As natural light filters through, these vintage scenes transform, casting ethereal shadows that echo the electric atmosphere of history's most iconic nightclub. This design element not only pays tribute to a legendary era but also invites Encore’s guests to feel connected to those unforgettable nights.
By borrowing from the DNA of nocturnal entertainment spaces, where atmosphere reigns supreme and every corner tells a story, they created a versatile venue that seamlessly transitions from sophisticated hotel bar to vibrant nightspot. This innovative approach perfectly captures the dual personality of Encore - a space that honours its theatrical heritage while moving boldly into the future.
Entire concept created by Rehab Squared.
