Trace Bar

Inspired by London’s unseen makers, the rooftop celebrates craftsmanship etched into the city’s fabric. Industrial form, organic geometry, and skyline light shape an atmosphere of refined hospitality.

Type:
Commercial - Hospitality
Year:
2025
Location:
London
Overview

Inspired by London’s unseen makers, the rooftop bar celebrates craftsmanship embedded within the city’s fabric. Set in Paternoster Square, the design balances industrial warmth with organic geometry, creating a refined yet immersive hospitality experience for both business clientele and visitors. A moody material palette of steel, brick, and timber evokes the atmosphere of a craftsman’s workshop, while hidden historical references; drawn from Christopher Wren’s pineapple and the etched names of St. Paul’s labourers, are subtly integrated into bespoke architectural details.

The rooftop accommodates a seamless indoor–outdoor flow, combining covered and open areas to respond to climate, privacy, and skyline views. A sculptural skylight reinterprets the pineapple motif through refined geometric patterning, becoming both a functional and symbolic focal point. Varied seating, strategic lighting, and discreet screening of rooftop services ensure flexibility and comfort, while sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems support long-term performance. The result is an elevated city destination that honours craft, history, and contemporary urban hospitality.