krypt.

PrizeWinner in Architectural Design / Restoration & Renovation, Winner in Interior Design / Hospitality
Firm LocationVienna, Austria
CompanyBüro KLK
Design TeamJonathan Lutter, Christian Knapp, Theresia Kohlmayr, Fabian Lutter, Jürgen DePaul
ClientCAT Bar GmbH
Projecthttp://

krypt.bar: Archeology in a Jazz Club During the renovation works on an ancient heritage building from the late 18th century on Viennas traditional Berggasse, a bricked up staircase was found. It led to a twelve meter deep, second cellar area with approximately 250 square meters. Located between Votivkirche and Sigmund Freuds apartment, this cocktail and underground bar is an aesthetical gem. Historical investigations showed that it was a semi legal establishment in the 50ies and 60ies in an era of Vienna’s flourishing jazz scene represented by names as Joe Zawinul or Fatty George. So the generic „genius loci“ did not have to be invented but simply revealed. The circulation and dramaturgy of the cocktail bar starts at an undecorated, narrow entrance door that leads via an first basement level, containing the wardrobe and a mirrored vestibule to a „floating“ stair case, which suggests a touch of „Sunset Boulevard“. This pathway leads directly to the seven meter main bar. Several alcoves, a hidden booth, the smallest art gallery in Vienna and secret hallways surround the center piece and give the impression of a nearly surreal venue fallen out of times.