Curtain Call

SOMA is a London bar conceived for a post-pandemic world that draws inspiration from 15th-century depictions of the Hindu Holi festival. The space integrates a curtain made from the Memory, which plays a defining role in shaping the interior experience, and furniture and cushions upholstered in Divina Melange.

The architectural concept for SOMA explores an elemental approach to space making through two principal interventions: 'the Counter and the Curtain'. Reflecting this, the bar's 33m long curtain, which nods to the nearby theatre district and creates a sense of intrigue, allows the atmosphere to be changed whenever required.

Hugh Scott Moncrieff, CAKE Architecture: "We wanted a heavy upholstery fabric for the curtain that would have quite a solid, sculptural presence surrounding the room. Kvadrat's Memory was the perfect choice for us. It has a beautiful texture and a subtle tonal variation, which we love. Given the curtain is such an integral part of the project, we could not have asked for a better experience in helping to source and specify the right fabric."

Cushions and poofs at the basement space are upholstered in Divina Melange. Like the curtain, they are specified in shades that reflect the natural pigments - such as indigo and saffron - which match the images of Holi and inform the palette for the interior concept.

SOMA is close to London's Piccadilly district. It has been named 'One of Top 10 Bars of 2021' by Dezeen magazine.