Glass Bar at CASACOR Minas 2024 by Balsa Arquitetura: A Harmony of Glass, Light, and Texture

Located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, the Glass Bar at CASACOR Minas 2024, designed by Balsa Arquitetura, is a masterclass in blending historical context with modern elegance. Covering an area of 185 m², the project reflects the overarching concept of CASACOR Minas 2024: honoring and preserving the unique features, pigments, and layers that already existed within the property while introducing contemporary elements essential for a functional bar space.

Design Concept: Old Meets New

Balsa Arquitetura’s approach emphasizes the contrast between the old and the new, creating a space where textures, materials, and architectural elements converse with one another. The project skillfully explores opacities, reflections, and transparencies, resulting in a luminous and inviting environment.

Innovative Use of Glass and Stone

The centerpiece of the bar is its striking counter design. Large stone slabs form the base, topped with a glass sheet counter that plays with light, reflection, and layering. Behind it, a functional glass bar shelf elevates the concept of transparency, creating a dialogue between glass and glass, and offering a fresh perspective on this versatile material.

Comfortable and Vibrant Lounge Spaces

The lower lounge was designed to foster comfortable social interaction and relaxed consumption. It is enriched by a bold artwork from artist Vitor Mizael, mounted on metal structures, which introduces a vibrant color palette that resonates with the finishes of the furniture, creating a lively yet sophisticated ambiance.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The project incorporates high-quality materials from renowned manufacturers, including A de Arte, Botteh, Cebrace, Classic Móveis, Deca, Elettromec, Galeria Murilo Castro, Home Office Grupo, Infinito Vidros, Lepri Cerâmicas, Líder Interiores, Mevi Piedras, Pingo Serralheria, and Terratile, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Photography and Documentation

The space is beautifully documented by Estúdio NY and Henrique Queiroga, highlighting the interplay of textures, transparency, and layered materials that define the Glass Bar experience.

All photographs are works of Estúdio NY, Henrique Queiroga