The concept for Bestia juxtaposes decorative contemporary elements against a raw, industrial space dripping with character. This approach pays homage to sophisticated modern-day Italian spaces, which often integrate contemporary interiors into centuries-old structures. Strong, traditional building materials such as tile, steel, marble, and wood also provide pops of festive color. The name Bestia (Italian for “Beast”) echoes throughout the space via hard-edged design elements, such as the wall covering’s pattern of bar-fight weapons, intimidating meat-hook chandeliers suspended from soaring steel tracks, and bathroom tile work that reads as unfinished. The repeated use of chevron and hexagonal patterns, tulip pendant lighting, warm amber tones, and airy booth seating help soften the aggressively industrial space with a bit of whimsy. The distinctive booths, engineered and built by District Millworks, feature seats that appear to defy gravity. A raw-copper bar top provides a canvas that...
