Manhattan is located on the second floor of the Conrad Singapore Orchard Hotel and is consistently ranked in the World’s 50 Best Bars.

The brief was developed by Proof & Co and was driven by the ‘golden age’ of cocktail making during the 1880s. Original cocktail showman Jerry Thomas and bartenders like him, were being hosted by hotels and had become celebrities in their own right. Later on during prohibition, the quality of liquor was poor which is why we refer back to the 1880s period instead.

Whiskey is barrel-aged in a Rickhouse and this is the inspiration for Manhattan’s entry. The barrels are contained by finely detailed bronze metal screens. High gloss lacquer panels announce the entry.

The bar is elevated front and centre and is literally a stage for the bartender, framed by rich plum theatrical drapery. Large symmetrical seating areas flank the bar and remind us of the grand society houses of New York. Seating areas are divided with gold stainless steel consoles topped in a forest green marble. Enormous eight meter-long Chesterfields in dark gloss leather border the room. Swivel club chairs finished in green velvet and leather sit opposite them, divided by antique mirror topped tables. The mirrored ceiling coffers expand the room by reflection, accentuating the richness of detail while allowing furtive views between bar patrons.