Tucked into a quiet residential block of Colonia Condesa, in Mexico City, OWL Hidden Bar inhabits what was once the storage space of a former restaurant. At just 1,098 square feet (102 square meters), its discreet footprint captures the spirit of a hidden bar — secrecy, intimacy and the thrill of discovery.
Inspired by 1920s speakeasies, the project reimagines Art Deco geometry through a contemporary lens. A monolithic brass bar anchors the space, functioning as both centerpiece and stage. Around it, illuminated textiles and warm finishes balance brass, wood, concrete and fabric, setting the scene for a night that shifts between calm conversation and lively music.
When it came to sound, the project team initially had a different brand in mind. But that changed once they visited NTX Distribution’s showroom and heard 1 SOUND for themselves.
OWL Hidden Bar Pairs Elegant Design with 1 SOUND Audio System
Courtesy / 1 SOUND
“We got them to visit our showroom and listened to 1 SOUND. They immediately went for it. The design started with the Cannon series and small MiniSUB5 subwoofers under the banquettes. The goal shifted to accommodate a DJ and needing more SPL so we designed in a few TowerLCC44s with a SUB310 and even the architects were convinced when they heard the amount of sound out of such a small form factor,” says Manuel Suero Gutierrez, President of NTX Distribution.
That decision shaped a system design both elegant and powerful. The design began with Cannon C5 loudspeakers paired with discreet MiniSUB5 subwoofers tucked under banquettes, creating warmth and depth in ambiance without intruding on the interior design.
With DJs frequently on the calendar and higher SPL required, the concept evolved. The architect was pleased to see how easily Tower LCC44 loudspeakers and the SUB310s integrated into the bar’s layout thanks to their slim form factor. NTX used Tower LCC44s because they supplied more than enough SPL needed in a small form factor. Their narrow dispersion pattern, of only 5 degrees, off the top and bottom of the speaker, worked well for this space with its lower ceilings. The result is a system that meets performance needs while staying true to the intimacy and elegance of the space.
Distributed MiniSUB5s support deep, even bass throughout the room, while Cannon C5s double as DJ monitors to keep performances tight and controlled. Together, the system brings balance — intimate and clear at low levels, powerful and dynamic when the night crescendos.
As the lighting shifts and the energy builds, OWL Hidden Bar transforms into a choreography of design, atmosphere and sound: an experience anchored by 1 SOUND.
