Bar 898, Happo

A new cocktail bar in Happo with views of the Hakuba Alps, warm interiors, and handcrafted Japanese oak furniture.

Project description

Vyvial & Co. were commissioned by the Hakuba Hotel Group to transform the upper floor of an existing ski-side building into a refined cocktail bar, located at the base of the slopes in Hakuba. The venue offers sweeping views of the Happo Mountains and draws inspiration from the timeless elegance of alpine retreats found across the European Alps.

The brief called for a space that felt both intimate and inviting—a warm environment to welcome guests after a day on the mountain. The approach centres on comfort and tactility, using natural materials and considered detailing to create a sense of understated luxury.

The rich timber tones, paired with soft upholstered seating and low ambient lighting, evoke a feeling of calm and relaxation, while reflecting the textures and hues of the surrounding alpine landscape.

Vyvial & Co. collaborated closely with local furniture makers to produce a suite of bespoke pieces, including counters and communal tables crafted from Japanese oak.