Profiled | Little Victory Wine Bar

A New Old World Coastal Escape

Blending Southern California ease with European charm, Little Victory Wine Bar brings a “New Old World” vision to life. Designed collaboratively by Kirsten Potenza, Ashley Hohmann, and Workshop Valentino, the space balances tactile warmth, intimate detailing, and curated elegance, creating a setting where guests feel immediately at home yet delightfully transported.

The Vision: Nostalgia Meets Coastal Modernity

The brief called for a wine bar that felt familiar yet inspired, where the relaxed coastal lifestyle of Carlsbad met the conviviality of European bistros. Drawing inspiration from Copenhagen’s relaxed, intimate dining culture and the wine bars of Parisian neighbourhoods, the team layered humble, natural materials to create a space that feels storied and authentic. From custom joinery to architectural elements with a deliberately handmade quality, every detail was crafted to support a sense of community, comfort, and curiosity.

A Material Story Told Through Tiles

Tiles of Ezra Amano tiles became the guiding element of the design from the very start. Selections like EZMANOBRD Tres Azul and EZMANO1010 Dali Azul shaped the material narrative, infusing warmth, character, and colour into the small, intimate space. Placed thoughtfully, these tiles define key areas while harmonising with locally sourced furnishings, vintage European finds, and curated artifacts displayed across ledges and niches. The result is a tactile, story-driven environment that feels collected over time rather than designed all at once.

A Palette Rooted in Place

The colour scheme bridges Southern California’s coastal light with Mediterranean inspiration. Natural, earthy tones form the base, enriched with saturated blues and hints of copper and red, echoing seaside wineries and sun-drenched European towns. Live greenery throughout adds vibrancy and texture, while rough-hewn architectural materials reinforce the handcrafted, authentic quality of the bar.

A Space That Feels Like Home

Completed in April 2025, Little Victory Wine Bar is a masterclass in thoughtful, tactile design. From its curated tile placements to the hand-selected artifacts, the bar exudes charm and sophistication while remaining approachable. Every surface, colour, and object contributes to a space that encourages guests to linger, sip, and savour.

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