Novikov sits at the heart of Mayfair with an intriguing combination of two beautiful restaurants – Asian and Italian, and a stylish lounge bar. Wanting to transform their lounge bar into an alpine retreat, they knew Kit & Caboodle were just the people to achieve this. With just 6 weeks to bring the project to life, we fast-tracked the design and planning process with them, which informed the styling, manufacture and installation of the space.
Taking inspiration from Ralph Lauren style combined with vintage Alpine posters and photos of celebrities enjoying decadent mountain-top parties, we created a sumptuous, luxurious yet cosy environment. The lodge was sponsored by quintessential classic vodka, Beluga. It featured a custom-made bar, handcrafted using solid oak distressed tops with cladding made from reindeer skins and leather straps. The Beluga logo was etched into a brass plaque and fastened to the front with brass rivet in order to feature the sponsor's brand.
This was not your standard ski lodge. The devil lay in the detailed extra touches - from bespoke tartan and velvet cushions, cloches filled with pine cones, a roaring fire with a richly garlanded mantle-piece, vintage skis and sledge, a bronze stag head and vintage luggage trunks. Not only was the overall impact stunning, it also offered intimate spaces where guests could relax and snuggle up. For those who felt a bit more like partying, there was opportunity to participate in the programme of adrenaline-fueled festivities in the Novikov Bar itself, where the resident DJs always turn up the heat. The menu was as fabulous as the surroundings, with winter warmers like Bratwurst, fondue, smoked fish, tartiflette and mulled wine, served alongside signature canapés and dishes from both Novikov’s Asian and Italian Restaurants.
Reaction is everything - guests were in awe and amazed at the transformation as they passed through the winter pine forest and through the heavy, rich drapery and into the lodge.
While the holidays seem to be over in the rest of the city, Novikov's cozy lounge is around for a few more weeks. Don't miss your last chance to enjoy this last bit of holiday magic!
