Where: Avery Bar at the Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common
What: A massive chandelier that dangles above the Italian marble bar
Whose Idea: This dramatic Murano crystal and hand-blown glass chandelier — 6 feet long, made with 139 pieces of curved glass — was crafted in Venice by custom light maker Av Mazzega. But the aesthetic recalls a prim Betty Draper sipping martinis in Manhattan circa 1963. “Our design approach was a midcentury modern aesthetic with some Italian undertones, while also feeling a bit feminine. Some of the more American midcentury modern designs can feel a bit rigid, and we liked introducing this more feminine aspect,” says designer Nicole Campion at New York City’s AvroKO. “We wanted to incorporate lots of vintage lighting for something moodier, sexier, and ambient.” It’s a helpful vibe at this popular first date spot: Beneath the soft glow, potential paramours look even better.
Avery Bar, The Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common, 10 Avery St., Boston,
617-574-7100, www.ritzcarlton.com
Kara Baskin can be reached at kcbaskin@gmail.com