Wildflower Bar, Chelsea, Manhattan

Location: Chelsea, Manhattan (Under the High Line)
Scope: Full Interior Renovation
Timeline: 10 Weeks Construction with 8 Weeks Design
Features: Custom millwork, upholstery, lighting, copper trims and stone tabletops.

Located directly beneath the iconic High Line in Chelsea, Manhattan, The Wildflower combines natural charm with refined elegance to create a warm and inviting
atmosphere.

The recently completed Design and Build project by Affect Build in collaboration with make X affect, captures the vibrancy of Chelsea’s artistic spirit, blending rustic original elements with contemporary design. Designed as a haven for locals and visitors alike, the project embodies a perfect balance of modern craftsmanship and natural textures.

Wildflower Bar, Chelsea, Manhattan

Location: Chelsea, Manhattan (Under the High Line)
Scope: Full Interior Renovation
Timeline: 10 Weeks Construction with 8 Weeks Design
Features: Custom millwork, upholstery, lighting, copper trims and stone tabletops.

Located directly beneath the iconic High Line in Chelsea, Manhattan, The Wildflower combines natural charm with refined elegance to create a warm and inviting
atmosphere.

The recently completed Design and Build project by Affect Build in collaboration with make X affect, captures the vibrancy of Chelsea’s artistic spirit, blending rustic original elements with contemporary design. Designed as a haven for locals and visitors alike, the project embodies a perfect balance of modern craftsmanship and natural textures.

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Scope of Work

Affect Group led the full interior renovation for The Wildflower, delivering an end-to-end solution that included:

  1. Millwork: Custom-crafted oak wood finishes that highlight the bar's natural aesthetic.
  2. Upholstery: Comfortable, built-in seating designed for relaxed dining and socializing.
  3. Metal and Glass Accents: Modern touches that enhance the overall sophistication of the space.
  4. Full MEP Upgrades: Full new Mechanical, electrical, plumbing infrastructure and distribution throughout the space was added along with lighting controls.
  5. New Kitchen Line and Ansul: The existing kitchen hood was re-utilized with new equipment added and a new fire suppression system.
  6. Lighting Installation: Soft, ambient lighting to create a cozy yet polished environment along with a full Lutron control system.
  7. New Low Voltage and AV Installations: A full new LV network inclusive of cameras, WiFi and POS’s along with a full AV system was installed.


Design Features

The renovation of The Wildflower reflects a harmonious blend of natural inspiration and modern design, offering a relaxed yet stylish dining and cocktail experience.

  • Bar Design:
    • The main bar features custom-crafted wood with intricate geometric accents and copper inlays with botanical tiled inlays along with backlit reeded glass providing both functionality and a striking focal point.
    • Soft green tones on the bar panels contrast beautifully with the oak wood trims, creating a soothing, inviting aesthetic.
  • Seating and Upholstery:
    • Plush velvet and leather banquettes and stools featuring fabrics from Momentum Textiles offering both comfort and elegance.
    • Custom-built table tops with oak edging and stone inlays blend seamlessly with the rustic hardwood flooring.
  • Wall and Ceiling Finishes:
    • Specialist wall coverings from House of Hackney and Burke Décor featured in the bathrooms and rear floral room.
    • The rear room and storefront featured a faux planting installation.
  • Lighting and Details:
    • Vintage reclaimed lighting fixtures from the UK and sconces illuminate the space with a warm glow, enhancing the cozy ambiance.
    • Natural materials like terracotta tiles and soft pastel walls add texture and depth to the interiors.

Challenges and Solutions

Historic Location: The building contained several historical features which the client wished to retain such as exposed brick walls and the wide plank feature floor which was part of the buildings original structure. This require carefully protecting and restoring these features during construction.

Tight Timeline: With an expedited program of 10 weeks, affect was able to benefit from having its own millwork fabrication in house by fabricating off-site whilst overlapping on-site work was going on to minimize the downtime for the client.

Occupied Building: The retail space was situated on the Ground Floor of a fully occupied residential building which required collaboration with the property manager to minimize noise and dust disturbances to the residents above along with coordination of deliveries and waste removal.

Outcome

The completed The Wildflower stands as a new highlight of Chelsea’s bustling dining scene. Its understated elegance, attention to detail, and warm atmosphere have made it an instant favorite for locals and tourists alike. Located under the High Line, The Wildflower is more than just a cocktail destination—it’s a retreat in the heart of Manhattan’s urban energy.

Client Testimonial

"Affect Group’s ability to bring our vision to life in such a seamless and beautiful way has been incredible. Wildflower Bar is a true reflection of the creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication they bring to every project." — Johny Lynch – Owner

Conclusion

The Wildflower project showcases Affect Group’s expertise in creating spaces that merge style and functionality. This renovation not only honors the character of Chelsea but elevates it, making The Wildflower a new landmark for the area.

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