Cantinetta, Capitol Hill
For restauranteur/owner Trevor Greenwood, the new Cantinetta Bar needed to celebrate la Dolce Vita in food and in spirit. Most importantly, the space needed to feel intimate and cozy which can sometimes be a challenge working within brand new concrete construction.
The space had a variety of challenges that aren’t immediately evident when you see the finished product. An electrical vault inside and below the space limited where we could put the kitchens and bathrooms. The addition of a second exit impacted the overall flow and dining spaces. And the myriad of plumbing and columns in the space create clutter in what was aiming to be a sophisticated interior. But, those challenges also provided opportunities. Rather than keep columns and plumbing exposed, they were wrapped and oversized with larger columns, dropped ceilings, and arches that define the space. That pesky second exit becomes a secret connection to a private dining room, while tightening up the kitchen allows for an intimate bar experience.
We worked with Trevor to create special moments and places, ensuring all tables feel special. Trevor himself sourced all furniture, lighting, and artwork to fit those special places, and reinforce the cozy intimate experience he wanted from the beginning.
Custom built pocketing doors give a glimpse to a private dining space beyond, which can be connected to the main dining space or separated with a more discreet side entry, if desired.
