Project Team
design: Acme & Co
Located within historic Angel Hotel, the site was formerly House of Merivale and Mr John, an iconic fashion and haberdashery store in Sydney. Inspired by the art of whiskey combined
with a speakeasy ambiance, J&M was to be a suite of rooms with the allure of a members only club.
J&M was to be a bijoux, a glistening jewel that would shine. Perched on the top floor of the establishment, the bar was to respect, retain and enhance the architectural integrity of the
building’s former history and propose a tribute to our client’s late father.
Accessed via a laneway at ground level, a constricted stairwell transports patrons up to the intimate 105m² space. The moment patrons enter J&M, they are engaged into the realm of
theatre and education. Marrying the artefacts of history within a sophisticated spatial flow creates an innovative layering of spaces and experiences.
Spatially the bar is divided into three distinct rooms reinforcing the sense of exclusivity within an environment akin to a penthouse apartment. The project embraces an aesthetic based on
fundamentals. From the bespoke interior down to the crystal cocktail-ware, the intimate spirit den deftly interweaves the former fashion house into every detail.
Layers from the original boutique were literally peeled back and deconstructed. Their aura of faded glory was enhanced by the addition of bespoke layers, from the avant-garde bar
joinery, haberdashery cabinetry, leather banquette seating and lighting.
J&M continues the family legacy by taking the patron on a sensory journey into the tailored experience. Extending through to the service, tailor-made spirits are ordered from either the
unconventional bar or ‘sidecar’ drink trolley. Transparency allows a unique opportunity for discourse between the bar tenders and patrons, integrating education of the spirits consumed
within the space reinforcing the authenticity of the product and the J&M brand.