Set within a historic warehouse at Devonshire Square, Anise has been reimagined as an intimate cocktail bar and lounge that celebrates colour, craft and longevity. Designed by London-based interior architecture studio A-nrd, the refreshed space forms a rich and inviting prelude (or postscript) to Cinnamon Kitchen London City; offering a mood-led setting shaped by atmosphere and material choice.
The design takes its cues from the chromatic world of Indian cuisine, drawing inspiration from spices to inform a layered palette with depth and warmth. Dark oak, velvet, leather, terrazzo and marquetry are brought together to create a space that feels cohesive and welcoming, with sustainability underpinning every decision. Existing elements have been carefully retained and enhanced, reducing waste while preserving the character of the original interior.
At the heart of Anise sits a substantial bar. The original marble structure remains, updated with embellished terrazzo tiles in orange and green tones and topped with a dark oak countertop. Above, a deep green velvet curtain by Harrison Cropper encircles the bar, introducing a sense of enclosure while concealing existing shelving. Suspended within this canopy, bespoke marquetry artwork by Chelsea Vivash is crafted from off-cut veneers, highlighting a commitment to thoughtful material reuse. The bar seats 24 guests on black swivel stools upholstered in tarragon-toned leather.
The lounge area unfolds into a series of relaxed seating zones for a further 30 guests. Custom-designed banquettes in dark oak line the walls, upholstered in spice-inspired hues with geometric fabrics by Casamance and leather seat pads by Crest Leather. Green velvet cylindrical cushions and glazed ceramic table lamps add comfort, while marble-topped tables and rattan pendants from Abigail Ahern add contrast.
Walls finished in dual Bauwerk limewash blend sumac and muted saffron tones, complemented by dark oak detailing, terrazzo accents and a long wall mirror that brings structure to the space. Original encaustic floor tiles have been retained, softened by Modulyss rugs that define seating areas. Along the windows, updated poseur tables and pleated linen ceiling lamps transform once-transitional zones into places designed to while away the hours.
With personal storytelling through Indian ceramic figurines collected by chef Vivek Singh, Anise is quite the spot to indulge in a carefully crafted libation before or after your Cinnamon Kitchen experience.
@thecinnamoncollection
@chefviveksingh
@a_nrdstudio
Anise Bar at Cinnamon Kitchen Photography, Cody Bamford.
