Small but mighty is a mantra that first worked well for Workstead when it designed the bijou hair salon First Ward in Tulsa Oklahoma, back in 2012. When the salon’s owners Jessica Bond and James Sherrod purchased the rest of the building, they also persuaded the city’s cherished Vintage 1740 wine bar to move in. With the bar’s owner Matt Sanders on board, the new proprietors proposed a refresh of the watering hole, which included new branding and interior design, lead again by Workstead. And thus, Vintage Wine Bar – an enticing, pale pink-toned space peppered with both contemporary and antique furniture – was born.
Stemming from the the Brooklyn-based design studio’s continued exploration of the art deco movement in Tulsa, the new space is made up of clean lines, jewel-like colour tones and thoughtfully chosen brass fixtures that pair well with its selection of small-production wines, a concise cocktail and beer list and menu of small bites and charcuterie. Grounded by a long, low banquette on one side and a sculptural walnut wood bar on the other, the light-filled interior is accented by elegant globe lighting (designed by the firm) and custom millwork from the local craftsman Eric Fransen. Stepped walls, geometric glass shelving and a floor mosaic featuring the bar’s new branding are other details where Workstead has combined both form and function. Comfortable yet cool, Vintage is bound to sit well with new and existing fans alike.§
