Wake Bar, designed by Salone Del Salon inside the ZMJ 1958 creative complex in Zhengzhou, reinterprets the contemporary social bar through immersive atmospheres, dramatic lighting and retro poetic aesthetics. The project develops a narrative hospitality environment where reflective materials, theatrical lighting and fluid circulation create a destination dedicated to urban social life and cultural exchange.
The entrance sequence transforms the bar into an immersive spatial experience
Wake Bar is located inside a former industrial complex converted into a creative park on the western outskirts of Zhengzhou. The red brick exterior walls and staircase leading to the upper floor establish a progressive spatial sequence designed to stimulate curiosity and exploration.
The project creates a gradual perceptual transition in which visitors move from a narrow and darker passage into a brighter and more open environment. This spatial contrast reinforces the sensation of entering a separate world detached from the surrounding city.
Lighting and shadow become fundamental components of the narrative atmosphere, generating an immersive and cinematic perception even before the drinking experience begins.
The layout integrates bar counter, lounge seating and private rooms into a fluid system
Salone Del Salon reconstructs the internal circulation system through an open yet layered configuration. The bar counter, scattered seating, booths and private rooms coexist within the same environment while maintaining visual continuity and functional flexibility.
Glass partitions contribute to a flowing spatial perception by enhancing transparency and visual depth. The long central counter and liquor cabinet become the social core of the project, encouraging interaction between bartenders and guests.
The layout supports different forms of hospitality experience, balancing collective social interaction with more intimate and enclosed seating areas.
Dramatic lighting and reflective materials define the retro poetic atmosphere
Lighting plays a central role in shaping the atmosphere of Wake Bar. Installations illuminated by red light, suspended golden elements and abstract artworks positioned against green backgrounds contribute to a theatrical and immersive visual identity.
Reflective materials multiply the layers of light and amplify the perception of spatial depth. The resulting atmosphere intentionally blurs the boundary between clarity and intoxication, reinforcing the dreamlike identity of the space.
The combination of leather, metal and marble introduces a nostalgic reference to retro interiors, while linear lighting systems add a more contemporary and technological layer. The project establishes a continuous dialogue between past and future.
Minimal geometries and mirrored surfaces increase the perception of depth
The walls are treated with restrained finishes that emphasise minimalist textures and geometric compositions. Modular liquor cabinet units, strip lighting and ceiling structures contribute to a strong sense of visual continuity and spatial cohesion.
Mirrored surfaces expand the perceived depth of the bar and reinforce the dynamic quality of the interior. While maintaining a complete functional organisation, the project intentionally softens the conventional perception of lobbies, corridors and circulation areas to strengthen the artistic atmosphere of the space.
Wake Bar interprets hospitality as a social and cultural platform
The project responds to the social needs of younger urban generations through a hospitality environment combining design, art, beverages and entertainment. Every element — from lighting and materials to artworks and furniture — contributes to a coherent and immersive customer experience.
Wake Bar is conceived not only as a nightlife destination but also as a platform for creative exchange, exhibitions and cultural events. The space is designed to evolve together with contemporary urban lifestyles and emerging cultural habits.
Project name: Wake Bar
Client: Zhang Yi
Location: ZMJ 1958, Zhengzhou
Area: 160 square meters
Design firm: Salone Del Salon
Chief designer: Salone
Design team: Zheng Weibang, Yang Jing
Photos courtesy: INSPACE
SALONE DEL SALON
Salone graduated from Istituto Marangoni in Fashion Interior Design and later completed a master’s degree in Surface & Textile Design. The studio develops projects that combine traditional spatial logic with contemporary narrative approaches.
The name Salone Del Salon means “Space Of Space” and represents the dialogue between Eastern tradition and contemporary design culture. The studio approaches design as a tool capable of integrating memory, artistic language and new forms of spatial experience.