Daydream Rum Bar
EMB Ventures LLC | Albuquerque, NM
Project Description
Buildout of a multi-tenant building to create a vibrant underground cocktail bar.
Design Team
Formative Architecture
The owners describe this gem as “a momentary paradise to drift into, if only for a few hours. Its tropical, tiki-inspired cocktail menu honors tradition with classics like the proper Mai Tai-as Trader Vic intended. Inside, the space recalls a Mediterranean cruise liner lost to time.”
Formative Architecture worked together with a private development team to complete their buildout of a multi-tenant building located to the heart of Nob Hill along historic route 66. The existing space included back of house storage space on the main level and a lower-level shell space with tight floor to floor clearances. Through the hard work and dedication of the owner’s team of contractor’s and fabricators, they were able to fulfill their vision for Daydream – a paradisal cocktail hideaway.
The bar’s design transformed an underutilized basement and storage space into a vibrant underground cocktail destination. The design reimagines the once-hidden space as a warm and welcoming environment, featuring rich wood finishes and carefully curated accent lighting to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
With thoughtful planning, the layout addresses the challenges of limited square footage and low ceiling heights.
The design incorporated custom woodwork and artwork provided by the owner. The result is a unique, immersive experience that turns a forgotten basement into a lively and memorable bar.
The unique atmosphere was designed as a chance to shed the ordinary. Deep mahogany walls frame booths dressed in topaz and emerald. Lighting resembles oysters clinging to long-held pearls. The finished product is a one-of-a-kind hand-fabricated atmosphere.
Services Provided
Architecture
Interior Architecture
Programming
Renovation
Commercial Kitchen and Bar Design
Photography
Elizabeth Wells Photography
Design Team
Formative Architecture
Year
July 2025