The lush experience of dining in this subterranean lounge bar in central Auckland is a mastery of interior design. Inspired by the owner’s roots in Hong Kong, the Nightcar emulates historic train carts and subway stations. The aesthetic, explains Sam Griffin, Creative Director at interior architecture design studio CTRL Space, was developed “around the lavish travelling lifestyle, the intimacy and comfort of private settings, paired with the distressed and light-filled tone of a subway platform”.

Lighting, colour, texture and form take clientele on the train journey, wrapping the space in moody colours and lighting, paying particular attention to texture for a luxe touch

The flooring choices are genius. Cut-pile carpets lend a sense of premium luxury. Combining a shorter pile (Cambridge&) with a longer pile (Gleam) in alternating colours to create a check effect is a feature of the lounging spaces. Wrapping the deep grape/purple cut pile up the kickplates under the fixed seating banquets is a glorious touch, lit to emphasise the touchy/feely texture. A deep red carpet in the bar and circulation areas creates a richness and nod to the Asian inspiration for the concept. All these good looks are still backed by a commercial warranty and the practicality of using tiles in high-demand spaces like hospo.

On working with Heritage Carpets, Sam says, “With a brilliant range of products and the willingness to go beyond and above to deliver products on time and in budget why wouldn’t we!”

Read the full interview with Sam here