The Atrium designed by Smith Hanes Studio turns out to be an escape for it’s visitors

The Atrium designed by Smith Hanes in close collaboration with artisans and artists has turned out to be a real escape into a dreamy land. In the ‘Atlanta Magazine’, Atrium was referred to as one of Atlanta’s most anticipated restaurant openings of 2022. Tal Baum belonging to the ‘Oiva Restaurant Group’, is the restaurateur who has also envisioned serving a modern American menu with European influence at Atrium. The tropical foliage, the whimsical pink grass and the cascading Spanish moss take visitors out of the noisy city life into an unreal yet pleasing location.

Located at the Ponce City Market in Atlanta, the Atrium has been broadly differentiated into the ‘Parlor’ and ‘Bistro’. The ‘Parlor’ is a 1200 sqft cocktail lounge whereas the ‘Bistro’ is a large 4000 sqft dining room. The design by Smith Hanes Studio comprising of interior designers, architects and industrial designers has worked together with various artists such as Charlotte Smith- a local ceramicist, Kipper Millsap- a Savannah-based mural artist and Pinker Times- an Atlanta-based floral artist. The works of these different artists along with the plush furnitures and lightings custom made by Smith Hanes Studio has lifted and activated the true spirits of Atrium. The restaurant welcomes guests to escape to a different time and place when they enter the cozy lounge ensconced by long colourful curtains with comfortable seating.

“At Atrium, you’ll find an inspiring escape from the everyday, an enchanting and visually stimulating environment that celebrates colour, whimsy and passion. The restaurant was designed in collaboration with Atrium Founder Tal Baum and inspired by her travels, particularly leaning on colourful French cafes and Art Deco buildings. The lines, colours, shapes and patterns are fascinating, unafraid and daring. Atrium gives you the freedom to let your hair down, have a little fun and enjoy the pleasures of an incredible meal in a fantastical space.” – commented Smith Hanes | Founder of Smith Hanes Studio

An extravagant Cocktail Lounge at the Atrium

A strong connection and sensible imitation of a traditional Paris cafe is the feeling created as one spends time in the ‘Parlor’ at Atrium. While the glowing arched Deco bar back holds everything needed for a favourite cocktail, the hand-painted mural done by Kipper sets the tone of the lounge, thereby creating a whimsical and enticing space. The soft-pink mural is strongly inspired by the iridescent plumage of the Glossy Ibis bird, which has its true origin from the Old World. Imported Spanish fringe lights accent the mural, illuminating the large round tables below.

The ‘Parlor’ also houses the Handmade fluted tiles by local ceramicist Charlotte Smith which has been delicately installed around the entire bar front. And complimenting these installations lie the twinkling brass chandeliers that reminiscent of opulent Parisian homes filled with magnificence and grandeur. A sensual and alluring lounge is the result of a two-toned pink banquet area wrapping the entire room.

“Similar to the name Atrium, the tiles were inspired by Roman columns and architecture,” says Charlotte Smith | Local Artisan & Ceramicist

A garden party at the Bistro

At the Atrium designed by Smith Hanes studio, the large dining room has replicated the feeling of taking a walk through a Paris garden or conservatory through the custom floral installations by florist Pinker Times. The room is glamorised by the lush floral drapes comprising dried petals, leaves and vines suspended mid-air from the ceiling. It encapsulates a rare experience of being able to enjoy the charm of a garden party. A subtle yet warm glow is initiated by the cantilevered Massive hand-blown pink glass sconces with brass arms.

The soft blush-pink banquettes effortlessly divide the fern-green room into more intimate settings. Finished in plaster and walnut, and adorned with full height curtains, the space is completed with deeply rich finishes that complement the lusciousness around.

“Thousands of florals and foliage suspended in the air, are composed like a piece of music. The art installation moves harmoniously around the room to celebrate the culinary experience at Atrium” – adds Lind

FACTFILE

• PROJECT: The Atrium
• ARCHITECTS: Smith Hanes Studio

Text by: Nikitha Sunil Vallikad | Contributor, A+D