Supermax is a low-lit, atmospheric speakeasy accessed via the kitchen of a bustling pizza joint in King’s Cross. Deep red fluted banquettes curve through the plan to create a balance of intimacy and sociability, while soft neon lighting gives the space its signature cosmic glow. A hand-polished terrazzo bar with oversized mustard-yellow chips forms the focal point, complemented by the bespoke Spiritland sound system that defines the bar’s immersive character.
- Location
- King's Cross, London
- Size
- 1,880 sqft
- Client
- Happy Face
The vision for Supermax was to create a transportive, late-night counterpart to the bright canteen-style restaurant above. Working with the team behind the much-loved London listening bar Spiritland, the ambition was to craft a venue where music, mood and atmosphere take centre stage. Inspired by the Italo Pop movement and semi-secret Manhattan bars such as Please Don’t Tell, the concept centred on discovery, intimacy and a sense of playful exclusivity from the moment guests find the concealed entrance.
Equally important was creating an interior that fostered comfort and conviviality. The brief prioritised places where small groups could settle in privately while still feeling part of the room’s wider energy. Supermax needed to function as both cocktail bar and late-night dance spot, balancing durability with warmth and character. This shaped a design language of curved seating, rich materials and lighting that could shift effortlessly from early-evening glow to late-night intensity.
Before and After
Our approach centred on sculpting an immersive, tactile environment through strategic use of form, colour and light. Curved deep-red leather banquettes were designed to allow private conversation while encouraging visual and social connection at their ends. Neon lighting washes the surfaces in a soft, atmospheric hue, enhancing the bar’s cosmic quality and the intimacy of the subterranean setting.
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