There is a certain magic to the carnival, from its pop-up cotton-candy-and-corndog manifestation on high school baseball fields and city parklets to the full-blown amusement park, whirring with color and noise and packed with wide-eyed thrill seekers. Even from a distance, one can sense the joy of plunging momentarily into a sort of Technicolor escapism, of swapping real bills for tokens and raffle tickets, forgoing real meals for the sugar high of funnel cakes and ice cream, and trading any sense of the quotidian for a series of fleeting joyrides.

The carousel is perhaps a perfect summation of this unabashedly simulated fantasy, inviting riders to enter an extraordinary other world, but one that is knowingly contained in a finite circle. It is also the perfect centerpiece for a legendary bar in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. The metal enthusiasts at Bastille Metal Works have recently partnered with the historic Hotel Monteleone to install a rotating pewter bar top to enhance the striking carousel crown that defines this celebrated Nola destination. Those lucky enough to snag a seat can sip on cocktails while basking under the lights of the hundreds of exposed bulbs lining the extravagant architectural centerpiece. Better yet, they can enjoy a gentle, carefree spinning sensation without putting away too many drinks.

[All images courtesy Bastille Metal Works]

by Kelly Chan

posted in New Projects

tagged Bastille Metal Works, Carousel, Carousel bar, Hotel Monteleone, interior design, louisiana, New Orleans, restaurant, restaurant design, theme restaurant

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