Bar Pivot by OFF Studio: A dynamic intersection of design and history
Located at a unique crossroads in the vibrant neighborhood of Hapjeong-dong, Bar Pivot by OFF Studio is a compelling exploration of spatial transformation. The name “Pivot” itself captures the essence of this space, which serves as both a geographical and conceptual focal point. The design, influenced by its intersectional location, embraces change and transition, drawing visitors into a dynamic experience where each pathway in the vicinity seems to lead naturally toward the bar. OFF Studio harnesses this natural flow, creating a captivating, versatile environment that plays with the fluidity of movement and time.
Originally a traditional house with load-bearing walls, Bar Pivot’s architectural history is still present, yet it has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis with the addition of a steel structure. By preserving the original ceiling and floor, the designers retain elements that reflect the building’s history and add depth to the space.
Contrasting this preservation, the new steel structure—painted a crisp white—stands alongside freshly designed walls, emphasizing the evolution of the site. This juxtaposition of old and new not only tells a story of transformation but invites visitors to experience it. The focal point of this transformation is the oak whisky bar, which embodies the essence of change while serving as the heart of the space.
Within Bar Pivot, objects are thoughtfully minimalist, designed solely to fulfill their functional roles without imposing themselves on the overall atmosphere. Freed from rigid alignment, each object is arranged outside of a strict grid system, creating an ever-changing visual landscape that shifts based on the viewer’s perspective.
This spatial fluidity is further amplified by a central metal object whose modular design allows for multiple configurations. Its adaptability hints at a future of constant reimagination, where the bar’s layout and use can evolve, reflecting the inherent flexibility embedded in the design by OFF Studio.
By blending historical elements with contemporary structures and minimalist objects, OFF Studio’s design for Bar Pivot encapsulates a philosophy of continual change. Each component, from the oak whisky bar to the modular metal centerpiece, underscores a seamless integration of the past with the present, inviting visitors to experience an environment where time and design pivot endlessly.
All images courtesy of OFF Studio, shared with permission
