“Why Manuela Soho is my dream design place.”
- Curated by Younghye
- Apr 20
- 2 min read
As an art-focused interior designer, I’ve always dreamed of spaces that seamlessly blend an artful spirit with a cozy, playful atmosphere. While many iconic restaurants are handled by massive hospitality firms, they often lean into a "corporate-luxe" aesthetic that feels a bit sterile—a vibe I felt even at the handsomely designed Quality Bistro.
Manuela in SoHo (by Hauser & Wirth) is the exact opposite. It is everything I envision for the perfect dining environment.
The space isn't just "decorated"; it’s inhabited by world-class installations:
• Whimsical lighting by #MikaRottenberg.
• Vibrant tabletops by #MaryHeilmann.
• Custom long dining tables designed by #RashidJohnson.
• Immersive murals by #RitaAckermann and #PatSteir
The bar area is where the "fun attire" of the restaurant truly shines. Instead of standard lighting, you have Mika Rottenberg’s surreal, colorful lamps that feel like industrial jewelry hanging over the counter. It creates a glow that is sophisticated but doesn't take itself too seriously.
The backdrop is equally stunning, often framed by #RitaAckermann murals that give the whole area a sense of movement and raw texture. It’s the perfect spot to sit if you want to be surrounded by the art rather than just viewing it from a distance. It feels less like a hotel bar and more like a private collector’s very inspired basement lounge,
The collection is staggering. Seeing a Louise Bourgeois "Spider" next to a Lorna Simpson mural is a rare privilege in a public space. The walls also boast the paperworks by:
• George Condo & Cindy Sherman
• Philip Guston
• Gordon Matta-Clark & Nicolas Party
It isn’t just a "pretty" room—it’s a masterclass in dining artfully. The best part? The food actually lives up to the surroundings. If you appreciate a space that has a pulse and a personality, you have to check it out.
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