Hovito
Indianapolis, Indiana
Hospitality
A refined cigar lounge concept designed to introduce drama, sophistication, and elevated nightlife energy within a private club setting.
Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, Hovito was conceived as a dark, intimate cigar bar and lounge serving both members and select guests.
Irwin Raymond was brought onto the project by the architect of record to reenergize the design direction after the client found earlier concepts underwhelming. The objective was to inject a stronger sense of creativity, atmosphere, and identity—transforming the lounge into a destination.
The environment needed to feel exclusive, immersive, and unmistakably sophisticated.
The Challenge
The success of this project required redefining the aesthetic direction while respecting the architectural framework already in place.
Key challenges included:
Elevating the creative vision after initial design concepts fell short
Aligning the client and design team around a more cohesive and compelling atmosphere
Creating a distinct identity within a private club environment
Balancing moody sophistication with functional comfort
Designing a memorable experience that differentiates the lounge within the local market
The environment needed to feel intentional and fully realized—without excess.
Our Strategy
We approached the project through an atmosphere-driven hospitality framework, focusing on material richness, lighting control, and spatial drama.
Our strategy focused on:
Developing a darker, more immersive material palette
Layering lighting to create depth and intimacy
Introducing bold natural stone elements to anchor the space
Designing key experiential moments that heighten memorability
Ensuring that circulation and seating layouts support both privacy and social interaction
Every decision reinforced the goal of creating a lounge environment that feels elevated, sensual, and distinct.
The Design Solution
The final environment embraces a moody, sophisticated aesthetic defined by material richness and contrast.
Rosso Levanto marble serves as a dramatic focal material, particularly within the restrooms, where its deep red veining creates a striking and memorable impression. Dark finishes, refined detailing, and controlled lighting establish an atmosphere that feels both intimate and confident.
The result is a cigar lounge that balances comfort with edge—elegant yet bold, restrained yet expressive.
Before
After
Before
After
The Result
A redefined hospitality experience aligned with the client’s aspirations.
Hovito now stands as:
A distinctive ultra lounge within the Indianapolis market
A cohesive and memorable environment that elevates member engagement
A differentiated venue offering exclusivity and atmosphere
The project demonstrates how thoughtful material strategy and atmospheric design can reposition a hospitality concept with clarity and impact.
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Brand Strategy
Concept Development
Interior Design & Architecture
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Hovito illustrates the power of disciplined drama in hospitality design.
By aligning material boldness with spatial intimacy, the project transformed an underwhelming concept into a lounge experience that feels singular within its market.