vinvinvin
vinvinvin
DATE: 2019
ADDRESS: 1290 RUE BEAUBIEN EST, MONTREAL
PHOTO: DAVID DWORKIND
vinvinvin
Intentionally maximalist, the interior of Vin Vin Vin pays tribute to the madness, dynamism, and vitality that surround natural wine. During our first meeting with the clients, they insisted on sharing a bottle of Slovakian wine from Strekov, a leading name in the natural wine movement. This spontaneous gesture set the tone for our approach, bringing a human and convivial dimension to the design process that reflects the culture of natural wine itself.
Inspired by the colourful labels and uninhibited aesthetic of natural wines, the design unfolds in an eclectic, vibrant, and deliberately exuberant setting. Bold colours, expressive textures, and repurposed objects come together to create an environment where imperfection becomes a virtue and every element contributes to a distinctive atmosphere.
A service island and wine glass rack set the tone upon entry, immediately establishing the theatrical character of the space. At the heart of the restaurant, a central bar connects the open kitchen with the various seating areas, organizing circulation while encouraging interaction. A batch of fifty bathroom vanity lights, sourced through classified ads, was reimagined with folded steel sheets to create a series of sculptural, brightly coloured light fixtures. On the walls, a hand-trowelled textured plaster finish adds depth and materiality at a low cost. MRDK collaborated with Lambert & Fils on the design of the bar lights and the pendant fixtures suspended above it, developing a lighting scheme that contributes to the space’s identity. Along the walls, generous tan leather banquettes are paired with vintage tables and chairs, bringing together comfort, character, and spontaneity.
The design process for Vin Vin Vin placed the customer experience at the forefront, prioritizing theatricality over a strictly architectural approach. The goal was not simply to create a space, but to stage stimulating, intoxicating, and revelatory moments within a setting devoted to sharing and celebration. Much like natural wine itself—unrestrained and unpredictable—the interior invites discovery, sparks curiosity, and celebrates the pleasure of being together.