Project Overview

Blackbird Cocktails + Kitchen is an intimate Bahamian restaurant and bar that transforms the traditional dining experience into a narrative journey inspired by the smooth-billed ani, a native Bahamian bird. Located west of Nassau, this 2,500 square foot venue celebrates the transition from predawn darkness to morning light through a carefully orchestrated spatial and sensory progression.

Design Concept: "All Birds Are Black at Dawn"

The design philosophy centers on the transformative moment when darkness yields to light—a metaphor for the Bahamian journey from colonial history to independence and creative expression. The smooth-billed ani serves as both mascot and muse, with its distinctive physical characteristics directly informing architectural elements throughout the space.

Spatial Design Strategy

Four Signature Alcoves: Curved dining spaces along the western wall directly reference the ani's distinctive bill shape, creating intimate "nesting" environments finished in Bauwerk's MIDNIGHT deep navy.

Progressive Color Journey: The space unfolds through a carefully curated Bauwerk palette progression—MIDNIGHT, HUMMING, DATE, HENNA, GARANCE, CARAMEL, and WITCH HAZEL—creating a physical experience of dawn breaking over the Caribbean.

Central Bar as Horizon: The rectangular bar serves as the metaphorical horizon line where the color transition from cool to warm tones occurs, anchored by a dramatic fabric-covered bird cage chandelier installation.

Linear Flow Elements: Long, clean circulation paths inspired by the ani's distinctive tail create intuitive wayfinding while reinforcing the bird-inspired narrative.

Material Palette

• Bauwerk Mineral Paints: Seven-color progression from MIDNIGHT to WITCH HAZEL

• Varied Black Finishes: Glossy and matte contrasts referencing the ani's plumage

• Natural Textures: Weathered wood, woven rattan, and living plant walls

• Metallic Accents: Brushed stainless steel and bronze elements

Architectural Features

• Elevated DJ Platform: Positioned to mirror the ani's lookout behavior

• Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Seamless transition to outdoor terrace representing full daylight

• Acoustic Design: Sound systems supporting both ambient music and live performance

• Flexible Seating: Mix of intimate booths, communal tables, and bar seating

Cultural Integration

The design authentically celebrates Bahamian heritage through local materials, indigenous color inspiration, and spatial arrangements that encourage the communal gathering traditions central to island culture. Hand-painted ani murals by local artists create focal points throughout the space.

Lighting Design

Dynamic LED system subtly shifts throughout service periods, beginning with deep blues in the alcoves and gradually transitioning to warmer tones, physically manifesting the dawn progression concept. Custom fixtures reference both the ani's form and Caribbean architectural traditions.