SOMM CELLARS WINE & SPIRITS,

New York City

Motivated by their passion for Burgundy & hospitality, two wine directors for restaurants Batard & Tribeca Grill dreamed up a retail venture. They chose a 1300 sf space in a new Richard Meier building. 

Visitors were to feel more like guests (experiencing service) than customers (transactions). Their shop should appeal to both sophisticated collectors and casual imbibers. Challenges included addressing acoustics and sun control in a space with 22 ft tall concrete ceilings and glass storefronts, and creating ample bottle storage, including a temperature-controlled Fine & Rare room.

The result is an oasis on the western edge of Manhattan. Expansive islands echo the wedge shape of the space, incorporating POS stations, a tasting bar, and vast bottle display and storage. A storage catwalk, with felt & cane insets, adds warmth; suspended fabric ceiling panels aid the acoustics.