Burberry Brings London to NYC with Festive 'Knight Bar' Pop-up
The holidays have arrived early in New York this year with a most British of takeovers. Legendary fashion house Burberry has temporarily transformed an iconic NYC bar into the Burberry Knight Bar, bringing a festive dose of London across the pond.
Part of the brand’s ongoing “Burberry Streets” experiential campaign, the pop-up offers New Yorkers a chance to step inside Burberry’s world. Decking out the space in the brand’s signature checks and plaids transforms it into a cozy holiday haven evoking all the charm of an English pub.
Tucked away in Manhattan’s trendy Noho neighborhood, the formerly nondescript Temple Bar has undergone a jaw-dropping makeover. Its brick exterior now sports giant illuminated Burberry signage, while inside, rich red carpeting and golden accents surround the wooden bar and leather seats. The atmosphere is intimate yet lively – the perfect spot for revelry on a winter’s eve.
Adding to the London essence, the drinks menu features signature British cocktails like negronis and mulled wine. Bar bites are courtesy of North London café Norman’s, whose British delicacies like sausage rolls and Scotch eggs will satiate hungry patrons. Burberry is bringing communities together by fusing local and international flavors for a cosmopolitan night out.
Just next door, Burberry has also unveiled a window installation creatively fusing fashion and festivities. Passersby can peek inside lifesize gift boxes decked with the brand’s new plaid-trimmed accessories, surrounded by a wintry streetscape. The adjacent ‘bus stop’ comes complete with digital signage displaying the latest collection.
The pop-up highlights Burberry’s new Knight handbag for Winter 2023, putting the polished, equestrian-inspired accessory center stage. Yet the event also serves to immerse consumers in Burberry’s renewed vision under creative director Daniel Lee. His debut collection reimagined heritage pieces like the trench coat, and the Knight Bar gives a similar fresh twist to British tradition.
By blending local and London influences, Burberry is underscoring its international outlook even as it celebrates its roots. The temporary takeover demonstrates that while traditions can be cherished, creativity demands evolution. What better time than the holidays to bring people together for this cultural exchange?
The Knight Bar follows previous Burberry Streets activations in Seoul, Shanghai, and of course London during fashion week. Part interactive exhibit, part social experience, the campaign utilizes real-world spaces to connect with consumers. While e-commerce expands globally, physical experiences become ever more important for brands to tangibly engage audiences.
The move also celebrates the launch of the brand’s new Knight Bag by Daniel Lee for winter 2023 and the newly refreshed Equestrian Knight Design.
Launched in September, Burberry Streets is a series of takeovers that will be held worldwide to showcase the brand. This has included London’s Bond Street tube station being renamed Burberry Street during London Fashion Week.
The Knight Bar will be showcased virtually to followers worldwide, enabling anyone to experience a piece of London this season. Whether in person or online, it offers a festive dose of exploration and excitement.
Knights Bar – Burberry Streets Series
Temple Bar, NYC
Official Burberry site for more information
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