Atelier Zébulon Perron has recently completed Hav & Mar, a vibrant culinary venue that celebrates multicultural flavors. Located in the heart of New York City‘s dynamic Chelsea arts district, this delightful spot is housed within the iconic Starrett-Lehigh building. Hav & Mar represents the second partnership between Atelier Zébulon Perron and the illustrious chef Marcus Samuelsson, who was born in Ethiopia and raised in Sweden, and has mastered his craft in the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
Samuelsson, with his rich tapestry of African, Scandinavian, and American heritage, envisioned a restaurant that harmoniously blends these cultural influences. The name ‘Hav’ translates to ‘Sea’ in Swedish, while ‘Mar’ means ‘Honey’ in Amharic, Ethiopia’s official language. Since its grand opening in late 2022, Hav & Mar has fulfilled its promise of offering a globally-inspired menu filled with festive and flavorful dishes.
“Diversity and a meeting of cultures is a theme that permeates Hav & Mar,” shares Zébulon Perron, the founder and lead designer of the firm that carries his name. This theme is not only reflected in the menu but also in the restaurant’s aesthetic and branding.
The mermaid motif, crafted by artist Derek Adams, serves as the restaurant’s logo, symbolizing the fusion of cultures and the celebration of diversity. This artistic representation adds a whimsical touch to the dining experience, inviting guests to explore the depths of culinary creativity.
Atelier Zébulon Perron embarked on a transformative journey into a former industrial space, infusing it with a sense of warmth and character. By selecting plywood as the foundational material, they crafted a unique identity for Hav & Mar. This versatile material played a pivotal role throughout the design, adorning walls and creating boundaries, while also serving as the framework for innovative lighting fixtures. Notably, plywood was integral to the distinctive enclosure of Hav & Mar’s private booth, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
The design choices extended to elevated materials, yet the project prioritized a high-end ceiling that fosters an inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful approach ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds can gather comfortably, creating a sense of inclusivity. The interior of Hav & Mar features bespoke furnishings crafted by Atelier Zébulon Perron, harmoniously blended with vintage elements that add a touch of nostalgia, alongside decorative lighting developed in partnership with Lambert & Fils.
Every element within the space contributes to a rich narrative of international and multicultural influences, reflected in the earthy palette of browns and honey tones. These warm hues beautifully contrast with the light marbles, including a striking teal bar top, creating a visually dynamic environment. The interplay of plush velvets and rich walnut with raw stucco and concrete pays homage to the building’s industrial heritage, celebrating its past while embracing a modern identity.
In this thoughtfully curated setting, each piece tells a story, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a world where comfort meets sophistication. The design not only honors the space’s history but also creates a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the diverse experiences of its visitors, making Hav & Mar a true reflection of contemporary life.
Hav & Mar’s open kitchen design enhances the sense of flow and interaction, with the main bar strategically placed right in front. To optimize the layout, Atelier Zébulon Perron introduced a private booth as a distinct sub-space adjacent to the bar and kitchen area. This innovative approach transforms what could have been the least desirable seat into one of the most sought-after spots in the establishment.
The main bar at Hav & Mar commands attention, highlighted by a striking lighting fixture that resembles a sea creature, suspended directly above. This whimsical yet functional piece not only adds visual intrigue but also serves as a canopy, bringing the space down to a more human scale. The design embraces verticality, featuring a variety of elements that rise from the ceiling, floor, and walls, creating a dynamic atmosphere.
Each of these design elements is brought to life through custom lighting fixtures, which serve dual purposes as both sculptural art and ambient backlighting for the eclectic mix of glowing spaces. The interplay of light and structure adds depth and character to the environment, inviting guests to explore every corner.
“You can create the most beautiful spaces imaginable, but creative lighting is essential to infusing ambiance into those spaces,” Zébulon Perron reflects. “With so many unique spaces and design elements to absorb at Hav & Mar, original lighting is one of the areas where we were really able to express ourselves.”
In essence, Hav & Mar is more than just a dining destination; it is a vibrant celebration of cultural intersections, where flavors and traditions from around the globe come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience.