Kensington Cigar Lounge

KCL is a private cigar sampling lounge located in Kensington, London, developed alongside an established specialist cigar retailer. The venue has been designed as an exclusive destination for cigar enthusiasts, offering a refined environment for sampling premium cigars alongside curated drinks and hospitality.

The project involved the complete redevelopment of an existing high-street live–work unit. The building was stripped back to its external envelope before being comprehensively rebuilt, introducing new floors, walls, roof structure, windows and internal layouts to accommodate the specialist requirements of a cigar lounge environment.

The lounge has been designed to create an intimate and atmospheric setting with a sense of discovery. The entrance adopts a discreet, almost speakeasy-style approach, reinforcing the exclusive character of the venue.

Internally, the space is arranged across two levels. The upper floor houses a walk-in humidor and a small number of seating areas, while the lower level provides the main lounge space with seating, a bar and guest facilities. This arrangement allows visitors to move between the humidor and lounge spaces while maintaining a relaxed and comfortable environment.

A key challenge in the project was integrating the extensive building services required for a cigar lounge within an existing urban property. The design incorporates a sophisticated air-handling and ventilation system throughout the building to maintain air quality and ensure a comfortable environment for guests.

The sampling lounge has been constructed with an airtight internal envelope to prevent smoke migration into neighbouring properties, addressing both environmental and regulatory requirements.

The interior design was developed in partnership with DeArt, renowned Italian craftsmen who specialise in high-end bespoke joinery and shopfitting. Their expertise informed the detailed design and fabrication of the lounge interiors, including the walk-in humidor and custom cabinetry.

Rich materials and carefully crafted finishes create an environment that reflects the traditions of cigar culture while delivering a refined contemporary space suited to both social gatherings and informal meetings.

KCL transforms a former high-street unit into a distinctive hospitality destination in Kensington. Through careful spatial planning, specialist ventilation systems and refined interior detailing, the project delivers a discreet and high-quality cigar lounge experience within a carefully crafted environment.