Marcelino’s Seaport
Project Stats
- Location
Boston, Massachusetts
- Size
3,100 SF
- Market
- Expertise
Designed for all five senses
Located on the ground floor of a federal courthouse in the Seaport District of Boston, Marcelino’s Seaport is a boutique cocktail bar intricately designed around the five human senses to create a holistic experience that captivates and engages patrons. From the inviting incense wafting through the entrance to the rich aromatic notes of wood that fill each room, every element is thoughtfully paired with the flavors of the cocktail menu. The tactile pleasure of the carefully selected furniture complements the warm lighting, which is easy on the eyes and enhances the ambiance. Inspired by the vibrant colors of Andalusia, the palette harmonizes with carefully curated food and cocktails.
The owners prioritized a space that intentionally evolves throughout the evening through the use of light and shadow. Light levels and color temperatures shift before night falls, crafting a dynamic and bespoke experience. Uplighting, soft cove lighting, custom wall sconces, and pendant lights all work in concert with the palette of reflective and patterned materials and finishes. Additionally, the sound system allows for precise control of audio levels in each room, while temperature regulation further personalizes the experience, ensuring an immersive, elevated atmosphere.
First impressions
Designing within an active federal courthouse meant strict security and spatial limitations. The team worked with the landlord to resolve complex kitchen layout constraints and ensure all design solutions met the standards of a high-security environment. The experience begins with the Marcelino’s entrance along Boston's Harborwalk, which defines the edge of the historic Fort Point district and offers visitors a view of the Boston skyline across Fort Point Channel. Patrons are welcomed inside by an alluring archway and a striking infinity mirror, greeting guests with a dramatic first impression. The dramatic entryway, intricate ceiling, and dynamic lighting create moments of awe and wonder. A herringbone-patterned wood floor underlines the space, enriched by patinaed brass accents and an intricate ceiling finished in sumptuous Venetian-style plaster.
Purposeful programming
At the heart of the space is a beautifully curved bar with laser-cut metal screens inspired by Moroccan architecture and surrounded by vintage-style mirrors with arched frames. The stone bar top is accented by rich amber veining while the bar base resonates with the elegance of the laser-cut screens through embossed metallic patterns. Behind the bar, both the left and right sides are equipped with an under-counter espresso machine, a bar fridge, a freezer for large crystal-clear ice, and a glass chiller. The center of the back bar is home to a cocktail-on-tap system.
Two smaller, more private curtained lounges are located on either side of the main bar area. Each lounge offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with its own distinct design. The custom-designed furniture adds to the venue's unique and modern interpretation of Middle Eastern ambiance. With this layout, featuring a central bar and flanking private lounges, the design team was able to strike a balance between communal energy and personal intimacy, fostering social interactions from shared experiences to private conversations. The seamless interplay of stimuli envelops guests, transporting them to a world of wonder and engagement.
This project was completed by Dyer Brown before acquired by Corgan in August 2025.
