Set within the former U.S. Embassy building – now reimagined as The Chancery Rosewood – Carbone London emulates the glamour and buzz of New York’s cult Italian restaurant. Working closely with the interior design team, we created a lighting scheme rich in ambience and drama to recreate the theatrical spirit of the New York original.
The ground floor bar is a classically Mayfair setting, enhanced by a layered material palette. Light fittings were embedded in the ceiling, beneath the bar counter and within the joinery to emphasise the scheme’s contrasting textures and finishes. Flush-mounted spotlights accent the ceiling, adding texture to its aged tin finish, and integrated joinery lighting directs light onto the zinc-topped oak bar and glassware.
A mural depicting supper-club scenes creates a pause point on the staircase down to the basement restaurant. Here, the lighting is subtle and low-level to maintain the warmth of the upstairs bar and pull guests down the steps without interrupting the flow of the artwork. Linear LEDs graze light onto the walls along the staircase, and lines of light concealed within the stringer details produce a soft, even glow.
Downstairs, in the restaurant devoid of natural daylight, the lighting design comes into its own. We created an emotionally resonant ambience that transitions from bright and energetic around the bar, to soft and moody at the tables. Layers of light activate the amber-fluted glasswork, brass details and striking red ceiling, adding the character and visible sparkle synonymous with Carbone. At a lower level, light levels are dim and atmospheric; table lamps and wall sconces evoke a sense of intimacy, and picture lights frame and accentuate the artworks.
Images © Douglas Friedman
— Gary Thornton
