Project Giardino Cordusio Cocktail Bar (Milan)

The new cocktail bar in Palazzo Cordusio, Milan, features a stunning bar station that blends modern precision with historic elegance — a project collaboration with the renowned Giancarlo Mancino and Sunset Hospitality.

Giancarlo Mancino
Photo Credit: Sunset Hospitality

Behind Bars collaborated with Giancarlo Mancino, who partnered with Sunset Hospitality Group for the creation of Giardino Cordusio, an Italian classic cocktail bar in the heart of Milan. Giancarlo and Sunset Hospitality’s vision was clear: they wanted to take the bar experience at Giardino Cordusio to new heights.

This collaboration led to designing a bar station where creative design meets technical expertise. The historic charm of the building presented challenges, which were addressed with thoughtful solutions and careful planning.

Giancarlo, known for his innovative "Martini Altar" designs, brought a unique aesthetic that brought the bar station to life. The result is a visually captivating and highly functional space that perfectly complements the venue’s ambiance.

“One of the standout features of the design is the Negroni amphora. Designed in collaboration with Mancino Vermouth, it serves as the centerpiece of the bar, offering a glimpse into the dedication to artisanal mixology.”

Photo Credit: Sunset Hospitality

One of the standout features of the design is the Negroni amphora. This glass-enclosed cooler, designed in collaboration with Mancino Vermouth, serves as the centerpiece of the bar. It not only catches the eye with its radiant presence but also offers a glimpse into the bar's dedication to artisanal mixology. The amphora ages Negroni cocktails, similar to winemaking techniques, ensuring every drink is crafted to perfection.

Behind the bar's sleek, minimalist appearance lies a world of technical sophistication. Despite its straightforward look, the bar integrates an advanced array of machinery, plumbing, and electrical systems. From the hidden beer system to the cleverly concealed compressors, every component is engineered to blend seamlessly with the design, optimizing both functionality and aesthetics.

Given the bar’s location within the historic Palazzo Cordusio, we had to approach the project with a deep respect for preservation. Our team navigated strict guidelines to ensure the bar station was seamlessly integrated into the space while maintaining the building’s architectural integrity.

Spanning an impressive 8 meters, the bar, based on our Leon series, is designed to accommodate multiple bartenders comfortably. It boasts a well-equipped back line and state-of-the-art features, all wrapped in an understated elegance.