Inspired by Italian art historian Giorgio Vasari, the newly renamed Huis Vasari building has been designed with a focus on making cultural education accessible for as many people as possible. Within historic frescoed rooms, visiting academics, great thinkers and entrepreneurs will deliver accessible content.
The design techniques will pay tribute to mid-century Italian design and use materials that provide a contemporary feeling such as white marble and textured warm wood.
UXUS’ role in the partnership has been to design Bar Vasari, a new restaurant and café on the lower ground floor accompanied by a retail space. The retail space retains the original wooden ceiling which is enhanced by the marble-topped counter below.
A mid-century Milanese-inspired espresso bar will create an informal setting for people to discuss art with a coffee or a cocktail.
The garden room features the original fireplace, preserved in its original glory and the wall sconces have also been retained. In addition, a private dining space for eight guests is located within the original 17th century kitchen offering an authentic feeling of what it may have been like to dine here in the 1660s.