The moody yet warm interiors of EVE are inspired by the hedonistic atmosphere of the renowned Kensington Roof Gardens in fusion with the casual flamboyance of the iconic 1960s Kensington brand, Biba.

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The design intent for the speakeasy bar and dining room was to create standalone and unpredictable sanctuaries, away from the chaotic bustle of Cromwell Road. The space is designed as a classical enfilade of rooms each with its own specific mood and focus. The design addresses this through the careful layering of spaces with heavy drapery, wild vegetation, playful artwork, sculptural furniture as well as bold shades and textiles. Each room is articulated around the axial symmetry and has a bold colour backdrop which instantly sets the scene. By focusing inwards instead of outwards through the grand Victorian fenestration, each part of the enfilade is a sanctuary within itself, leading the eye to the antique mirror wall which acts as a focal point of the intimate raised performance stage.

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As much of the existing building has been retained as possible, lending the project to a complex temporality. The ambiguity is played up through the addition of period features in the 90s extension of the building, period cornicing gestures to the listed Victorian facade, combined with handmade products and textural finishes such as ceramic tiles and crafted objects. The rough and textured finishes, which complement in an elaborate entrance vestibule mosaic, act as a counterpoint to the many more polished elements of glamour that punctuate the space: fringes, tassels, brass details, heavy drapery.

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Design collaboration with House of Dré 

Photos by Kensington Leverne