Verve Wine/Argot Wine Bar And Restaurant

Project Details

When a client in the restaurant industry approached us with a need for custom furniture on a quick timeline, we knew we could count on our sister company, Custom Crafters, to build something perfect for this unique wine merchant and French bistro. Partnering together, we were able to bring our client's design dreams to life with custom banquettes, seating and tables—just in time for their grand opening!

We were brought in to help Chicago-based Verve Wine and Argot co-owner, Dustin Wilson, conceptualize and build-out their new space in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Part vintner and part French restaurant, we knew this client needed a design as unique as they were. Our goal was to create a space that made diners want to linger, enjoy the ambiance and learn about wine.

In addition to a classic neighborhood French brasserie, Argot and Verve Wine are used for special events and wine tastings, so our custom furniture needed to be dynamic. Balancing Chicago flair with an emphasis on great wine and delectable French cuisine was important to our client, and they do this beautifully. Situated in a picturesque area abundant with older buildings similar to those you'd find in France, this 54-seat restaurant is also within close proximity to DePaul University. Blending in seamlessly, this neighborhood landmark is just as perfect for students to pop in with their families as it is for locals to visit on the regular.

Familiar, yet fresh, the overall ambiance has a definite nod to traditional French brasseries but with updates sprinkled throughout, such as modern art and cool tones. Using a medium, versatile wood finish ensured a timeless look and feel. Banquette seating upholstered in commercial-grade leatherette will age gracefully and look fresh for years to come in this high-traffic area. The bold, forest green hue complements the wood tones perfectly and is a subtle nod to the vineyards that source their unique wine. Bistro-style bar stools and chairs finished in hardwearing fabric with a coordinating design and color scheme blend perfectly and make you feel as though you're sitting in the middle of a brasserie in Paris.

Tight timelines are a familiar constraint to which we're accustomed. With a solid project plan in place and consistent, scheduled client meetings, we knew it was possible for this project to be completed on time. As Dustin Wilson, Master Sommelier, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Verve Wine explains, “We really enjoyed working with Kevin and the Rework team. We're very happy with the results, the clear communication along the way, and the speed in which they all got this done for us!”

Verve's strong desire to source curiosity and inspiration around wine—without any pretension—is evident in the timeless details that were selected. The end-result is a vibe reminiscent of a classic, French brasserie with just the right amount of modern design incorporated. This slight nod to the past works perfectly within the relaxed, authentic atmosphere of this neighborhood fixture.