A vibrant Cuban rum bar has taken up residence on the ground floor of a new condo building in Allentown, Penn.
Chef Jose Garces debuted Rosa Blanca, a beverage-forward concept that offers a lively cocktail destination no matter the daypart, transitioning from bright and cozy cafe during the day to a nostalgic Havana hot-spot at night.
Saguez & Dash led the design of the project to transport guests to mid-century Cuba through immersive details and layered design.
“Rosa Blanca is a love letter to 1950s Havana, blending style, glamour and culture into an inviting and immersive space," says David Ashen, CEO of Saguez & Dash. "We drew inspiration from the iconic streamlined Art Deco style of the era, fusing African and Spanish influences to create a uniquely textured Cuban aesthetic."
Guests are welcomed at a hand-painted to-go window serving espresso and empanadas before entering a vibrant lounge defined by aged cement tiles, patinaed walls and wrought iron detailing.
At its center, a sculptural pink and dark wood bar seamlessly transitions from day to night, illuminated by vintage pendant lighting and backed by a curated rum display with antique cigar boxes and brass pineapple tumblers. Thoughtfully placed artwork, curated objects, lush greenery and intimate seating create a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger.
“Our goal was to create a uniquely vibrant and eclectic backdrop for Chef Garces’ Rosa Blanca brand — a space with both glamour and grit, and a lived-in charm reminiscent of Havana’s beloved, generations-old cafes. We hope Rosa Blanca becomes just that for Allentown, adding to the city’s rich history for years to come,” says Kristin Cullen, Design Director at Saguez & Dash.
Images by F. Oudeman, courtesy of Saguez & Dash
