The whisky ark

Interiors : Monique Elizalde
Designed : Span Design Studio
Construction : Vision Craft Construction
Photography : Span Design Studio

Set within the historic Queen Victoria Building, The Whisky Ark exudes timeless sophistication through its seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary refinement. The interior honours the grandeur of the building’s heritage architecture, from soaring ceilings to stained-glass windows while introducing a modern design narrative that celebrates whisky’s rich character and craftsmanship.

Crafted for the connoisseur

The space draws inspiration from the depth and warmth of whisky itself, pairing walnut veneers with brass accents and softly glowing light to create a luxurious palette of texture and tone.

Porter Jade Concave Mosaics form a striking focal point across the bar surfaces, their smooth honed finish and gentle curvature reflecting light with subtle movement.

The soft green jade hue balances the darker timber and metallic finishes, echoing the complexity and nuance of the whiskies on display

Balancing classic and contemporary

Designed by Span Design, the project brings together timeless materials with a distinctly modern sensibility.

The fluted stone details of the bar juxtapose the geometric tiled floors and crystal lighting, achieving a dynamic yet harmonious balance.

The result is a space that feels steeped in tradition yet unmistakably current, a nod to whisky’s enduring heritage reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.

In keeping with its heritage context, The Whisky Ark’s design carefully preserves existing architectural features while embracing sustainable practices.

Locally sourced walnut veneer and the retention of the QVB’s original warm shell reduce environmental impact while reinforcing authenticity and craft.

The outcome is a refined retail environment that honours the past, celebrates the art of whisky, and stands as a testament to thoughtful, enduring design.

project palette