Recipient of Cincinnati Design Award (CDA 17), 2013

Built-work category

Igby’s is a four-level, 7000 square foot bar in a re-purposed c.1900 brick and heavy timber building in downtown Cincinnati. To visually open and connect the multi-floor space, nearly one-third of the interior timber floor structure was removed. The resulting 3-floor atrium, double height Library Lounge, and a private penthouse mezzanine animate the large volume and open views between the levels.

The removal of so much interior structure on this hundred year-old unreinforced masonry structure required the introduction of a complex steel support structure. The salvaged wood joists were milled in half and used as paneling on all interior walls.  The original brick walls and remaining wood joists were exposed.

The unfinished industrial aesthetic of Igby’s envelope is contrasted by luxurious finishes and furnishings. In the Main Bar a large Italianate cut-stone fireplace anchors seating upholstered in leather and tapestry. Across a custom designed porcelain tiled floor, hand-dyed wallpaper rises from the Billiards Room through the atrium.  In the Library Lounge a second stone mantel, 20 foot high velvet drapery, a custom 7-foot diameter glass chandelier, an over-dyed antique oriental carpet, and a back-lit glass bar top exude luxury.