STATION BAR
Bar & Restaurant designed to capture the essence of a city’s railway historic heritage
"With architecture inspired by the old railways, Station Bar … opens its doors today. Reservations for tonight are already sold out.”
— Jornal da Cidade
14 Aug. 2008
Newspaper: Jornal da Cidade. Estação Bar terá variedade de bebidas e petiscos. Bauru: Jornal da Cidade, 14 Aug. 2008. Caderno Cultura.
The architectural design of the Station Bar was deeply inspired by the rich history of the city of Bauru, particularly its former railway complex, which once served as a vital hub during the city's period of great development. This historical reference became the central theme for the entire project, influencing every aspect of the design, from the exterior to the interior, and extending to the smallest details.
The exterior of the restaurant evokes the grandeur of the old train station with classic architectural elements such as large arched windows, exposed steel beams, and brick walls that speak to the industrial era. The design pays homage to the past while seamlessly blending with the modern context of the city, ensuring that it feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
Inside, the influence of the railway is even more evident. The layout mimics the open, airy feel of a station concourse, with long, high-ceilinged spaces designed to accommodate large crowds and promote proper ventilation.
Every detail was meticulously crafted to evoke the world of old railways: from the bespoke lighting fixtures resembling vintage train station lamps, to the chandeliers that echo the industrial nature of a train depot, to the use of steel, brick, and wood finishes that reflect the materials of the era.
ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY
The theme of the restaurant was defined by the architect, who conducted a thorough study of the city’s history and identity, drawing on its historical and cultural context to shape the atmosphere and design. The restaurant's name and logo were conceived during the initial design stage, and both were adopted by the restaurant owners for their strong connection to the theme and their clear representation of the identity through simplicity. The logo, in particular, was inspired by the trends seen in railway company logos of the past. Together, the name and logo reinforce the connection to the city's storied past, creating a consistent and cohesive theme.
The innovative design, coupled with the connection to the city's railway history, ensured it became an instant landmark. For the period it was running, the restaurant was not just a place to dine but a destination in itself, a living piece of commercial architecture. It stood as a work of art that celebrated the legacy of the railway, blending history with modernity and capturing the spirit of the city in every aspect.
Selected technical drawings
A CITY'S LANDMARK
The restaurant's opening was a highly anticipated event that attracted considerable attention and made a significant cultural impact on the city. It received wide coverage in the local press, with all reservations sold out on its very first night, which featured live performances of bossa nova and jazz. The venue continued to attract significant attention, welcoming even international personalities such as blues guitarist Kenny Brown, among other celebrities.
Beyond being a gastronomic and entertainment destination, the Station Bar became a cultural hub, hosting philosophical and literary gatherings. A key contributor to this success is the quality of its architectural design and the symbolism it carries for the city, bringing together history, tradition, identity, and contemporaneity within a single space.
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS
Photos taken during the construction
Project development: architects Roberto Gasparini Jr., César Scudeller and Bruno Furquim.
Photos: Roberto Gasparini Jr. and Helder Felipe Martins.