Experimental Bar-Secret from Kvadrat Architects: Hidden Cocktail Sanctuary in Astana

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Rustic interior of a stylish bar with wooden furniture, vintage decor, dim lighting and rich greenery for a cozy, welcoming atmosphere

Immersive, Evolving Bar Experience

Hiding within the office complex of Astana on the second floor, the experimental bar-secret by Kvadrat Architects redefines nightlife. No signs, no obvious entrance—only a locked door accessible by appointment only. Inside guests discover a dark, captivating world created not just for drinking but for emotional connection, contemplation and sensory immersion.

Designing Emotions Before Function

The concept emerged from a bartender's dream—to create a bar where every detail reflects his mushroom philosophy and emotional narrative. The challenge was unique: no plans or technical specifications, only feelings to awaken. Kvadrat Architects under the guidance of Sergey Bekmukhanbetov and Rustam Minnekhanov responded with an adaptive design—allowing the space to evolve alongside the concept and guests.

"We designed a canvas for life to paint upon. Architecture sets the tone, but space gains soul through use," say the designers.

Roots in Time and Meaning

The centerpiece of the bar is a 150-year-old tree root, brought from Petropavlovsk, the hometown of the founders. Suspended above the bar, it serves as both a visual and symbolic anchor—connecting past with present, embodying the spirit of growth and reflection.

This metaphorical image of graceful aging permeates the entire space. The new leather furniture should develop saturated patinas and folds, while the old wooden elements were treated with fire and cleaning methods to accelerate signs of time without imitation.

No Menu, No Rush: Personalized Mycology

In the experimental bar-secret, there is no menu. Bartenders create individual cocktails after conversations with each guest—referred to as "worshippers." The space operates exclusively at night, without a kitchen or distractions, emphasizing the art of drink-making and emotional interaction.

Rusticity and Authenticity, Not Simulation

The design draws inspiration from vintage industrial influences, with an emphasis on authenticity:

Exposed concrete columns and remnants of raw tiles were preserved during renovation rather than replaced.
Original 60×60 porcelain tiles, once belonging to the office, were removed to reveal stained concrete—its imperfections are embraced as aesthetic values.
A spiral staircase leads to the upper floor cocktail laboratory, continuing the story of curiosity and experimentation.

Light as Architecture

To preserve the space's secrecy, Kvadrat Architects developed a unique lighting concept:

Candle glow defines seating zones, acting as visual "carpets" guiding movement.
Industrial wall sconces accentuate bronze vintage frames, paintings and old decor.
No partitions, only mood boundaries, shadows and intimacy.

Assembled, Not Selected: Living Interior Space

The decor consists entirely of hand-picked vintage items, found at flea markets and historical estates:

Chippendale chairs from Almaty were carefully restored.
Bronze frames were found at the famous "Dry Bridge" in Tbilisi.
Candle holders, worn fabrics and leather details all enhance the feeling of authentic time-travel.

This is not a static interior—it’s a living organism, designed to evolve with each guest interaction, every spilled drink and every evening silence within its walls.

Photos © Gleb Kramchaninov Experimental bar-secret from Kvadrat Architects: Hidden cocktail sanctuary in Astana

Experimental bar-secret from Kvadrat Architects is more than just a place to drink—it's a journey into the heart of mycology, design and memory. In a world of smooth surfaces and quick impressions, this bar dares to age, slow down and tell stories through each wood structure, flickering candlelight and whispered history.

This is not a place you visit—it's a space into which you immerse yourself, becoming part of an evolving narrative that unfolds gradually—one signature drink at a time.

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