The Vault
The Vault is a speakeasy cabaret bar located at 177 Ingram Street, Glasgow. Throughout the design process, I preserved the A-listed building's historical significance while incorporating modern elements. The intention was to cultivate an atmosphere of exclusivity while maintaining inclusivity and a warm welcome to LGBTQ+ individuals.
There are no obvious sign of the bar’s presence, but followig the red neon light will guide you to the main bar.The soft angles and organic shapes throughout the bar create a smoother traffic flow and echo the fluidity of gender within the LGBTQ+ community. The bespoke tables, inspired by the movement of cabaret dancers, reflect the dynamism central to Baroque architecture. These are paired with Gabriella Crespi Rattan Lounge chairs, adding an elegant touch. The fresco, influenced by Roberto Ruspoli’s designs, has been reinterpreted to represent queer couples. Finally, the gold cornices emphasize the Baroque architectural features, adding a sense of grandeur.This corridor is inspired by the French artist Marcel Duchamp, a pioneer of the Dada movement who also contributed to drag history. His character, Rose Sélavy, was an expression of his love for subversion and enigma—values that resonate with the speak-easy cabaret. The lighting design draws from his iconic art piece Bicycle Wheel (1913), while the floor reflects his passion for chess. The walls are layered to evoke his work Corelles (1935), creating a dynamic, multi-dimensional space.Curves, wood, and cornice details evoke the ground floor’s architecture. The bar front, resembling a safe, honors the building’s banking history. A mirror ceiling expands the space, while red lighting reflects the corridor’s ambiance. The wall behind the bar shelves features layered, backlit shapes that mirror the dome and arches of the building’s roof and ground floor ceiling. This layering technique also echoes the basement corridor walls. The new flooring is laid over the original to preserve it, with a brass detail connecting the bar’s herringbone pattern to the marble floor.