JOI-Design has recently completed the reconstruction and design of a glamorous new VIP lounge at the O2 World Berlin. With subtle allusions to the clandestine allure of an exclusive members’ club in the ‘roaring twenties’, the design of Diamond Ball.Room evokes the dazzle promised by its name.
Four compact private stadium boxes were merged to create a tony entertainment hub for as many as 72 guests to experience live events. The spacious venue looks directly onto the O2 arena so that visitors can enjoy concerts or sports matches while entertaining elite clients and friends in a luxurious environment.
Warm hues of gold, platinum, cognac and ebony create a handsome, clubby feel. When overhead illumination levels are lowered at night, high-contrast lighting accents amplify the drama and excitement, turning the space into an ideal spot for an after-show party. Acoustic blinds cleverly disguised by black velvet curtains offers both insulation and privacy for celebrities, and a mobile DJ booth and Bose sound system help ensure the music sets the perfect mood.
Planned with flexibility in mind, the Diamond Ball.Room can be used as either one generously proportioned single space or for smaller events it can be divided into two distinct places with their own entrances. Screened from each other by a plush black velvet curtain, the halves – dubbed ‘Vodka’ and ‘Champagne’ – feature different design elements which form individual identities for each area yet also harmonise for when they are joined together.
Angular design features are present throughout in homage to the faceted diamond. In the Vodka side, shimmering silver highlights and clean, angular lines suggests the cuboid shape of ice cubes as they “clink” in a cocktail glass, while in the Champagne side, iridescent golden accents, glittering lights and soft curved forms recall the tingling effervescence of sipping bubbly.
This duality extends through to the bar which is split into two parts. Recessed into the wall above each section’s back bar is a diagonally oriented composition of diamond-shaped bottle displays and cabinetry with mirrored and leather finishes. Backlighting, as well as yellow internal illumination, creates a theatrical, ethereal glow. Shaped with an elegant fluidity, the bar stools at both counters provide a comfortable perch for the additional entertainment of watching mix masters concoct imaginative tipples.
The Vodka section is characterised by its strong angular form and leather fascia washed by recessed downlights. Suspended over the dark timber counter are modern pendant lights whose bent metallic wire frames transform them into glowing asymmetrical sculptures. The stylish furnishings in this area create a convivial vibe: contemporary wingback seating in tawny tones provides a comfortable embrace and stylish leather club chairs are grouped around glazed cocktails tables crafted with angular chrome bases. A pewter-toned banquette in a zigzag shape accompanied by glass and chrome tables and round charcoal coloured poufs reinforces the modern flair. On the wall, a silvery diamond-shaped grid adds understated artistry.
The Champagne space presents a different take on smart luxury. Low chesterfield sofas are upholstered in soft tobacco coloured leather, tufted ottomans tailored with classic dark grey wool, and round tables made from walnut-toned timber slabs that sit atop elegantly curved golden frames. Diamond-shaped wall art, this time gilded, provides a visual link with the neighbouring space. This pattern is echoed though the leather panels which line the front of the bar. Over its counter, a cluster of pendant lights made from cut crystal flasks cast shimmering glints of light.
At each entrance, luxuriously styled lockers with silver and gold finishes offer exclusive guests the ease and security of storing their personal items and coats without suffering the queues at the public coat check. Through clever planning, theatrical lighting, top quality craftsmanship and the use of refined materials, JOI-Design has shaped a sophisticated atmosphere from which VIPs may enjoy a relaxed visit to the O2 World Berlin.
