The Pearl Club is newly renovated and revives a piece of Chicago’s history, transforming a rundown dive bar into an intimate, modern venue. Morlights oversaw architectural lighting for the posh, moody space, illuminating lush velvet seating and rich wooden finishes while maintaining the bar’s historic character.
On a tight timeline, the team devised a simple, yet effective plan comprised of just two light sources. The first—tape light—is used behind banquette seating; on the service side of the bar; on all the shelves; and to uplight The Pearl Club signage. The second—low-voltage track lighting—is surface mounted to the original tin ceiling to light tables and curtains. Both selections are minimally invasive, ensuring the building’s ornate detailing remains untouched.
All lamps were specified at a static color temperature of 2700K and are dimmable via a wireless distributed dimming system. With 32 zones of control, different areas—from the service side of the bar to the smoky back room—can be illuminated according to preference. In addition, the zones enable each space to have a separate feel and look.
The straightforward plan—which provides the only source of illumination in the windowless, casino-esque venue—lures patrons through each of The Pearl Club’s mysterious, upscale spaces, inviting visitors to sip, dine, relax, and linger as the evening hours slowly dwindle away.
Olivia Blinn