Wine connoisseurs 1855 sought to create a wine bar in the heart of Oxford that oozed heritage and charm. They appointed Prosper to design and deliver the social space they craved, working sympathetically within the confines of the building’s listed status.
Wine connoisseurs 1855 sought to create a wine bar in the heart of Oxford that oozed heritage and charm. They appointed Prosper to design and deliver the social space they craved, working sympathetically within the confines of the building’s listed status.
1855 marks a seminal moment in wine history – the year Napoleon III introduced a classification system that ranked Bordeaux region wines in terms of quality. The founders of 1855 sought to share their own historical knowledge, creating a captivating space for novices and enthusiasts alike. A space that connects passion and knowledge, demanding visitors take some time to pause, relax and reflect.
The name conveys history – 1855 being the year wine was first classified. Playful coasters narrate the wine tasting process and drinks menus guide and inform choice. A striking bespoke artwork represents the brand throughout, encapsulating the fluid movement and rich colours of wine.
The interior design works in harmony with its unique setting, a 200 year-old listed building in Oxford’s Castle Quarter. Blending authentic materials like brick and timber with modern touches creates a unique atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Prosper worked sympathetically, incorporating solutions such as an oxidised mirror installation creating reflective impact while concealing blank windows that needed to be preserved.
A striking bespoke artwork represents the brand throughout, juxtaposing the fluid movement and rich colours of wine with the enduring solidity of metal. Design details throughout narrate the wine tasting process and drinks menus guide and inform choice, reflecting the attention to detail in 1855’s service.
