The worlds of Charles Darwin and Jules Verne collide at the new bar concept Deep Dive in Seattle. Crafted with a 1920s-inspired speakeasy ambiance, the luxe lounge is nestled between the two Amazon Spheres at the tech giant’s headquarters. Locally based firm Graham Baba Architects, which also previously crafted the exhibition venue Understory at the Amazon campus, led the transformation of the former nondescript space into the imaginative and experiential new concept.
“When you descend, you enter into this dark relic that’s tinged with a sense of Victorian magic and mysticism,” says lead architect Jim Graham. “It’s a small place with complex geometry. It was like fitting out a boat.”
The small scale of the 1,677-square-foot space results in ceilings of varied heights and a unique layout that complements its whimsical flair. A rich material palette serves as a backdrop for tufted velvet banquettes and the gently curved bar. Interiors are wrapped in wood and punctuated by shelves, while custom, suspended steel ribbons also infuse drama across the space. Separated from the main lounge by a wall composed of steel frames and glass paneling, the library room is endowed with eclectic antiques as well as details such as dark wood and custom metalwork.