At Maison Barnes, part of the Barnes Group and led by chef Daniel Boulud, Sorrells was commissioned to design and build a private dining room that also serves as a fully immersive wine experience. Located in the heart of the venue, the space surrounds guests with a 360-degree view of the collection—a room designed for both hospitality and heritage.
The cellar is not temperature controlled, prioritising comfort for diners, but the layout and materials have been carefully considered to protect and present the wine. The joinery, crafted from oak with a natural stain, combines a variety of racking styles, longside storage for cases of wine, designed around the restaurants extensive wine list.
Lockable doors and drawers protect fine wines, while bronze-edged inlays within the drawer bases reflect the level of finish expected throughout. Soft integrated lighting adds warmth and atmosphere while preserving bottle condition.
The cabinetry features detailed paneling, introducing a classic tone in keeping with the setting. Additional concealed storage supports functionality without visual compromise.This is a cellar designed to be experienced—a space that stores wine, protects it, and places it at the heart of the room. Built around the collection and dining experience, it reflects Sorrells’ approach to wine storage that lives beautifully within its surroundings.
Lockable drawers provide a secure location for high-value bottles, ideal for items not intended for open display. Finished with brass ironmongery to match the wider space, each drawer includes a custom inlaid base edged in bronze, offering both protection and a continuation of detailing throughout the joinery.
A key element of the design is the use of angled display racking, allowing bottles to be presented label-forward. Positioned for visibility within the private dining room, this approach enhances the aesthetic value of the space while encouraging guest engagement with the wine list.
Behind the main display, discreet storage cabinetry has been incorporated for glassware, decanters, and accessories. This ensures sommeliers can remain present with guests, with everything required for service kept within arm’s reach, supporting a more fluid and attentive dining experience.
The cellar combines standard horizontal racking with scallop racking, using every available inch efficiently. Scallop racking is employed in narrower areas to preserve access, while standard racking maximises overall capacity, supporting both organisation and density without compromising usability.
Lockable drawers provide a secure location for high-value bottles, ideal for items not intended for open display. Finished with brass ironmongery to match the wider space, each drawer includes a custom inlaid base edged in bronze, offering both protection and a continuation of detailing throughout the joinery.
A key element of the design is the use of angled display racking, allowing bottles to be presented label-forward. Positioned for visibility within the private dining room, this approach enhances the aesthetic value of the space while encouraging guest engagement with the wine list.
Behind the main display, discreet storage cabinetry has been incorporated for glassware, decanters, and accessories. This ensures sommeliers can remain present with guests, with everything required for service kept within arm’s reach, supporting a more fluid and attentive dining experience.
The cellar combines standard horizontal racking with scallop racking, using every available inch efficiently. Scallop racking is employed in narrower areas to preserve access, while standard racking maximises overall capacity, supporting both organisation and density without compromising usability.
