Fortito

SJ Design is a Norwegian agency specialising in the hospitality sector. In 2016 they had the opportunity to craft a vision for Fortito Bowling og bar, a new nightlife hotspot in Sarpsborg, southern Norway.

In contrast to the traditional image of a bowling bar – loud, dark, and garish – Sj Design opted for a more refined approach. To create a space that would accommodate both bowling fans and the general public, while also balancing the venue’s day-time and night-time requirements, Sj Design turned to BAUX acoustic panels and the result is a versatile and carefully-crafted space that boasts great acoustic design that has more in common with a high-end restaurant than a back-alley bowling club.

Diagonal BAUX Wood Wool Panels provide an attractive backdrop to the bar’s shuffleboard area. Their clean lines and quiet colours draw the eye to the bar’s oversized neon sign, which in turn illuminates and gives depth to the acoustic panels. The natural texture of the wool wool compliments the polished planks of the shuffleboard tables, shaping an environment that is at once classic and comfortable.

On the ceiling, BAUX 3D Pixels sit ready to absorb errant sound, and give the space a solid, sturdy appeal. The varied thicknesses of the panels and their asymmetric layout suggest a puzzle-like design, in keeping with the venue’s bar game theme. The BAUX Pixel’s playful design lends a youthful vibe, while its advanced acoustic capabilities allows for conversation undisturbed by the clatter of bowling pins.