Bronze Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2021
Masu Bar
by Wang Si Han
- A' Design Award 2021 Bronze Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2021
- CLIENT: Bar Masu
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 9,420
- Verification code FEE086D9E9 · Verify this award
About Masu Bar
Set in a convenient but inconspicuous location. Objective of the design is to reflect and create a true Japan atmosphere along with intimacy and meticulous craftsmanship. Inspire to blend with both a modern and yet a taste of japan heritage design. Bar frontage is designed to give a feel of actual japan streets bar. Design and materials used expresses warm Japanese hospitality and overall Ambient. Incorporate a long surfaced bar counter made of one piece South African walnut wood with no splicing as part of the design theme for the front lounge bar counter.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Design to reflect & create a Japanese atmosphere along with intimacy and meticulous craftsmanship. A blend with both modern and yet a taste of japan heritage design. Bar frontage designed reflects actual japan streets bar.
Convenient easy access to all areas for working staffs.
Design and materials customized to express warm Japan hospitality & overall ambient.
Design includes a frontage walk way, main lounge, VIP room, a private room, a kitchen,2 bar counters and restroom. - Dimensions & Packaging
- Old shop house space of 100 sq meter size
Square shape - Tags
- Luxury, seductive contemporary, masu bar, makes you feel like in japan. A touch of both modern,heritage Japanese bar.
- Production Technology
- Customizing the one piece South African walnut wood with no splicing. Challenging environment and constrain space to move in and install without any nails or sawing. Carefully crafted and space fully utilized, achieving the spirit of Japanese master craftsmen work.
Walls with customized pigeon hole to showcase liquor.
Floor uses natural black slate stone creating a heritage feel
An abundance of nature wood used on the surface gives a distinctive warmth, airy look and feel. - Design Challenge
- Covid19 situation causes much inconvenience and disruption.
Incorporate a long surfaced bar counter with no nailing and splicing.
Design to include 2 VIP rooms, open bar area, 2 huge bar counter, kitchen and restroom.
Concealing and camouflage fire extinguisher and sprinkler pipes and water hose with authority approval.
Customize Handmade on all fixtures.
Sophisticated air ventilation process eliminating cigars and cigarettes smell.
Sound insulation to control sound decibel. - Project Duration
- project started in September 2020 in china Donguang province and completed in Dec 2020. Set to official opening on 20 Jan 2021.
- Operation Flow
- This previously dark and fragmented space is transformed into a bright and open entertaining space that comfortably accommodate many happy guests.
Satisfying both the owner and its guests with choice of 2 VIP rooms or common lounge with bar counter featuring one piece wood counter. Customize handmade display space for liquor located on the walls surrounding the lounge.
Experience the true japan culture ambient with true japan craftsman spirits. - Research
- Research includes people interviews, social media ,bars visits, bookstores,museum. Sources from Japanese old architecture through books, google and youtube. Visiting well known Japan bars in the big urban areas and also museum to understand and achieve a direct sense and taste of the design inspiration.
Details studies on materials,size,measurement,heights,costs.
Survey targeted people provides a unbiased information on the needs, wants and preference expected from a Japan theme bar. - Inspiration
- Design inspiration primarily from research studies of Japanese drinking culture
whereby the integration of a delicate life is from a well served glass of Japanese-style wine.
Hence the overall design detail provides a smooth Japanese stream line flow experience with the use of materials reflect and elevated the true Japanese spirits ambient.
The bar name Masu refers to a container specially used for Japanese sake in the old days, which inspire the intention to bring such Japanese heritage experience to drinkers. - Image Credits
- image#1 -5: photographer : Mr Gary Wu
video : Zack Zheng - Patents
- not applicable
Colors of Masu Bar
Grand Interview about Masu Bar
The one-piece South African walnut wood bar counter was one of the defining features of Masu Bar and a key element of the overall design concept. The significance lies in preserving the natural beauty and continuity of the timber grain across the entire length of the counter, creating a sense of warmth, authenticity, and craftsmanship that cannot be achieved with spliced sections.The project presented several challenges. First, sourcing a single slab of South African walnut of the required dimensions and quality was extremely difficult due to the rarity of such large timber pieces. Second, transporting and handling the slab required meticulous planning because of its size, weight, and susceptibility to warping or damage.The most technically demanding aspect was the installation. We wanted the counter to appear as a seamless floating piece, free from visible fasteners, joints, or splicing. To achieve this, the supporting structure had to be precisely engineered and fabricated with millimeter-level accuracy. Hidden structural supports and custom joinery techniques were used to secure the slab while allowing for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood caused by changes in temperature and humidity.By avoiding nails and splicing, we maintained the integrity of the material and highlighted the natural character of the walnut. The result is not only a visually striking centerpiece but also a reflection of our commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and respect for natural materials. The bar counter has become a focal point of Masu Bar, embodying the project’s philosophy of combining traditional artisanal techniques with contemporary design excellence.
The frontage of Masu Bar was intentionally designed to capture the atmosphere and spirit of authentic Japanese street bars, particularly the intimate izakayas and hidden drinking establishments found in areas such as Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho. Our research involved studying the spatial characteristics, material palette, lighting, signage, and social dynamics of these venues to understand what makes them so memorable and inviting.One of the key observations was that traditional Japanese drinking establishments often create a strong connection between the street and the interior. Rather than presenting a completely enclosed façade, they offer visual glimpses into the activity within, generating curiosity and encouraging spontaneous interaction. We wanted Masu Bar to embody this same sense of discovery and accessibility.This research directly influenced the design of the frontage through the use of warm ambient lighting, carefully proportioned openings, natural materials, handcrafted details, and layered visual elements that evoke the character of Japanese urban streetscapes. The façade was designed not simply as an entrance but as a transitional threshold that gradually immerses guests into the experience from the moment they approach the venue.Beyond aesthetics, Japanese drinking culture places great importance on intimacy, community, and shared experiences. The frontage therefore serves a social purpose: it creates a welcoming presence that invites guests to engage with the energy of the bar while maintaining the cozy and intimate atmosphere typically associated with traditional izakayas.Ultimately, the frontage acts as the first chapter of the Masu Bar experience. It establishes a strong sense of place, evokes the authenticity of Japanese street culture, and prepares guests for an immersive journey that blends Japanese hospitality, craftsmanship, and contemporary design.
Our design philosophy for Masu Bar was centered on creating a space that respectfully interprets Japanese heritage through a contemporary lens rather than simply replicating traditional Japanese architecture. We wanted to capture the essence of Japanese culture—its craftsmanship, restraint, attention to detail, and sense of hospitality—while presenting it in a way that feels relevant and engaging to today’s guests.The foundation of the design draws from core Japanese principles such as simplicity, material authenticity, and the appreciation of atmosphere. Natural materials, warm timber tones, subtle textures, and carefully controlled lighting were selected to create a sense of comfort and intimacy. At the same time, modern forms, clean lines, and refined detailing were incorporated to give the space a contemporary identity that appeals to a diverse audience.A key aspect of the cultural fusion was finding harmony between tradition and innovation. Traditional Japanese influences can be seen in the spatial composition, handcrafted elements, and emphasis on human-scale experiences, while contemporary design interventions provide functionality, sophistication, and a fresh visual language. This balance allows guests to appreciate the cultural inspiration without feeling that the space is themed or overly nostalgic.We also drew inspiration from the Japanese concept that meaningful experiences are often created through subtlety rather than excess. Every design decision—from the material palette and lighting strategy to the custom-crafted bar counter and frontage design—was intended to evoke emotion and encourage guests to slow down, connect, and engage with their surroundings.Ultimately, this fusion enhances the guest experience by creating a setting that feels both familiar and distinctive. Guests are immersed in an atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Japanese drinking culture while enjoying the comfort and sophistication of a contemporary hospitality environment. The result is a space that is authentic in character, timeless in appeal, and memorable long after the visit has ended.
The decision to incorporate a sophisticated air ventilation system was driven by our commitment to creating a truly comfortable and inclusive hospitality environment. As Masu Bar was envisioned as a premium Japanese-inspired destination where guests could enjoy fine drinks, cigars, and social interactions, maintaining excellent indoor air quality was essential without compromising the intimate atmosphere that defines the space.During the early design stages, we recognized a common challenge faced by many bars and lounges: while smoking areas contribute to the character and social culture of the venue, lingering smoke and odors can negatively affect guest comfort, furnishings, and the overall sensory experience. Rather than treating ventilation as a purely mechanical requirement, we approached it as an integral part of the design strategy.The system was carefully engineered to continuously extract cigar and cigarette smoke at its source while introducing fresh, conditioned air in a balanced manner. This allows the space to remain fresh and comfortable even during peak operating hours, without creating excessive airflow, noise, or temperature fluctuations that could disrupt the ambience.From a design perspective, the ventilation infrastructure was seamlessly integrated into the architecture and interior detailing. Great care was taken to conceal technical components within the ceiling and built elements, ensuring that guests experience the atmosphere rather than the mechanics behind it. This reflects our broader design philosophy of allowing technology to support the experience discreetly and elegantly.The solution also complements the Japanese-inspired concept of Masu Bar, where comfort, hospitality, and attention to detail are highly valued. Just as every material, lighting element, and handcrafted feature was carefully considered, the air quality was treated as an invisible layer of design that enhances guest well-being.Ultimately, the ventilation system contributes to a more refined and immersive environment. Guests can enjoy the rich character of the bar, including cigars and social gatherings, while experiencing a clean, comfortable atmosphere that supports longer stays and a higher standard of hospitality.
The 100-square-meter shophouse presented both challenges and opportunities that ultimately shaped the design of Masu Bar. The existing space was compartmentalized, visually heavy, and lacked natural flow, making it feel smaller and darker than its actual size. Rather than viewing these limitations as obstacles, we saw them as an opportunity to rethink how space, light, and movement could be orchestrated to create a more engaging and efficient environment.Our primary objective was to maximize the perception of openness without compromising the intimate character expected of a Japanese-inspired bar. To achieve this, we carefully evaluated every element within the existing layout and removed unnecessary partitions, visual barriers, and bulky structures that fragmented the space. This allowed us to establish clearer sightlines and a stronger connection between different functional zones.Space optimization was approached through a combination of architectural planning and custom-designed elements. The bar counter was strategically positioned to become both the visual centerpiece and the organizational anchor of the venue, improving circulation while encouraging interaction between guests and bartenders. Seating arrangements were carefully configured to accommodate different group sizes while maintaining comfort and operational efficiency within a relatively compact footprint.Lighting also played a critical role in transforming the space. Layered lighting strategies were employed to brighten the interior while creating depth and visual interest. Reflective surfaces, carefully selected materials, and controlled lighting contrasts helped enhance the perception of spaciousness without losing the warmth and intimacy that define the guest experience.Another important consideration was ensuring that every square meter served a purpose. Storage, service functions, mechanical systems, and operational requirements were seamlessly integrated into the design to minimize visual clutter and maximize usable guest areas. This allowed the venue to function efficiently while maintaining a clean and refined aesthetic.The constraints of the shophouse ultimately guided us toward a design solution that prioritizes simplicity, clarity, and purposeful use of space. Rather than relying on size, we focused on creating a sense of generosity through thoughtful planning, proportion, and atmosphere.
the natural black slate flooring serves both an emotional and functional purpose. It anchors the space with a sense of authenticity and timelessness while delivering the durability, safety, and practicality required for a modern hospitality environment. It is a material that quietly embodies the Japanese values of simplicity, craftsmanship, and respect for natural beauty.
the customized pigeon hole wall exemplifies our belief that the most successful design solutions are those where function and beauty are inseparable. It addresses practical operational needs while embodying Japanese principles of order, simplicity, craftsmanship, and purposeful design, making it both a highly efficient feature and a memorable part of the guest experience.
Achieving a balance between operational functionality and an intimate guest experience was one of the most important design objectives for Masu Bar. Within a relatively compact 100-square-meter footprint, the challenge was to accommodate diverse programmatic requirements—including two VIP rooms, an open bar, dining areas, and kitchen facilities—without making the space feel crowded, fragmented, or disconnected.Our approach was guided by the principle of creating a hierarchy of experiences. Rather than treating each function as a separate destination, we carefully orchestrated the spatial relationship between public, semi-private, and private zones to ensure a seamless journey throughout the venue. This allowed different experiences to coexist while maintaining a unified atmosphere.The open bar was positioned as the heart of the space, serving as both the visual focal point and the social anchor of the venue. Inspired by traditional Japanese drinking culture, the bar encourages interaction between guests and bartenders, creating energy and engagement within the main dining area. Its central placement also helped organize circulation and establish clear spatial orientation.The two VIP rooms were designed to offer exclusivity and privacy without feeling isolated from the overall character of the bar. Strategic placement, carefully controlled sightlines, and acoustic considerations allowed guests to enjoy a more intimate setting while still feeling connected to the ambience and identity of Masu Bar. This balance was important in ensuring that privacy enhanced the experience rather than creating separation.Equally important was the integration of the kitchen and back-of-house functions. We focused on maximizing operational efficiency by positioning service areas to support smooth staff movement and rapid service delivery while minimizing visual and acoustic intrusion into guest spaces. This allowed operational requirements to remain largely invisible, preserving the refined atmosphere of the venue.To maintain a sense of intimacy throughout the space, we relied on a combination of scale, lighting, materiality, and spatial layering. Warm lighting, natural materials, and carefully proportioned seating arrangements help create smaller pockets of experience within the larger venue. Instead of perceiving the bar as a single open room, guests experience a sequence of comfortable and human-scaled environments.The Japanese concept of balance also influenced the design process. We sought harmony between openness and privacy, activity and calmness, efficiency and comfort. Every element was carefully considered to ensure that no single function dominated the space at the expense of the overall atmosphere.
the sound insulation strategy serves as an invisible layer of hospitality. It protects the intimacy of conversations, enhances comfort, and allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Masu Bar. By carefully managing sound, we were able to create a refined and welcoming environment that reflects the Japanese values of consideration, harmony, and exceptional guest care.
Receiving the Bronze A’ Design Award is a meaningful recognition of Masu Bar’s design philosophy and our belief that cultural authenticity can be expressed through thoughtful interpretation rather than direct replication. The project demonstrates that even within a compact urban footprint, it is possible to create a hospitality environment that is both culturally meaningful and contemporary in its appeal.One of the key lessons from Masu Bar is that authenticity is not achieved through decorative symbolism alone. Instead, it emerges from understanding the values, traditions, and social behaviors that shape a culture. In our case, we focused on the essence of Japanese drinking culture—its emphasis on craftsmanship, intimacy, hospitality, material honesty, and human connection—and translated these principles into a modern design language.We believe future bar design will increasingly move beyond thematic or superficial cultural references toward more experience-driven interpretations. Guests today are looking for spaces that feel genuine and immersive rather than staged. Masu Bar demonstrates how cultural narratives can be embedded into spatial planning, material selection, lighting, acoustics, craftsmanship, and operational functionality, creating a richer and more authentic experience.The project also highlights the importance of maximizing spatial potential in urban environments. As cities become denser and hospitality spaces become more compact, designers will need to find innovative ways to integrate operational efficiency, guest comfort, and cultural storytelling within limited footprints. The success of Masu Bar shows that constraints can inspire creativity, leading to solutions that are both practical and emotionally engaging.Another aspect that may influence future projects is the integration of invisible design elements. Features such as advanced ventilation systems, acoustic control, optimized circulation, and carefully planned service operations are often overlooked, yet they significantly contribute to the quality of the guest experience. We believe the future of hospitality design will place greater emphasis on these hidden layers of design that support comfort and well-being while preserving the desired atmosphere.More broadly, Masu Bar advocates for a design approach that respects cultural heritage while embracing contemporary lifestyles. Rather than preserving tradition as something static, we see it as a living source of inspiration that can evolve and remain relevant across different contexts and generations. This balance between heritage and innovation is increasingly important in a globalized world where cultural experiences must resonate with diverse audiences.