BIXI BEER

Bixi’s story began with the client’s search for her South Korean roots and exploration of a culture and cuisine foreign to her since moving to a small town in Minnesota at age 6.  With the client’s love of her culture and her husband’s fondness for brewing beer, they created a new Chicago brewpub with distinct Asian influences.

The design entails a “Steampunk” setting on the first floor to complement the views into the industrial style brewing space. Dark woods, metal and glass surround the lower level. The restaurant’s namesake, a mythological Chinese turtle-dragon, features in a spectacular black and white mural behind the bar. Handmade pendants artfully placed throughout the space create a starlit atmosphere in night sky.

As the user moves to the second floor a perforated wrap-around stair leads to the open and airy “English Garden” setting. This space is a different world with its lush foliage and retractable glass roof. Tall folding glass doors seamlessly blend the open-air patio with the main dining space. There are two private dining areas; paintings of mythological Asian characters serve as a nod to the Owner’s heritage.

Year: 2018

Type: Hospitality

Project Size: 12,000 sq. ft.

Structural Engineer: SP Engineers

MEP Engineer: Cartland Kraus Engineering

General Contractor: Designed Concepts Construction

Photographer: Madi Ellis