After purchasing a historic building in the West Adams area of Los Angeles, Edward Barnett and associates wanted to revive the community-focused culture of the previous establishment. 

The Cork, a bar and restaurant that was a staple of the community for 50 years, would become Sugar Hill, a space that’s a step up from a restaurant, but a step down from a club. It would come back to life as a legendary bar/lounge concept with premium cocktails and elevated small plates that fill the void for people  looking for a night out without having to travel across the city.

WHAT WE DID

  • Strategy

  • Positioning

  • Brand Identity

Based on the epicenter of LA’s Black Excellence in the early 20th century (and its Harlem predecessor), the newest Sugar Hill seeks to continue the tradition of cultural preservation in social spaces, pay homage to the greatness of the past, and be an upscale yet welcoming environment for present and future greatness.

It’s “not just your average neighborhood bar,” but “a destination catered towards Black experiences, history, music, and food.

The strategic pillars are:

Strategy

Customer-Focused
Company culture is dedicated to enhancing the consumer experience, applying appropriate feedback, and building strong customer relationships.

Operational Excellence
Customer satisfaction is earned through efficient service and quality offerings. No detail is spared in curating the ideal atmosphere for an evening out.

Community-Oriented
From the community we build inside to the one we experience whenever we step outside, people are at the heart of what we do. We prioritize making connections and pouring back into the surrounding area.

Photo of booths and tables with white text in all caps that reads "not your regular neighborhood bar"

creative concepting

We creatively positioned Sugar Hill as “LA’s Sweet Spot.” In the heart of historic West Adams, Sugar Hill is the true expression of the phrase "If you know, you know." This modern twist on a classic cocktail lounge offers a setting you can trust to guide your evening.

An atmosphere that promises quality and comfort, great food and elevated aesthetics co-star in this lavish production. Sugar Hill is the perfect place to bring old friends or meet new ones, where everyone comes together and toasts to the moment.

White text in all caps that says "Where all the can’t-miss social happenings are happening. Where your glass is always half full. And where the New Sweet Life resides."

Presenting as “a luxury brand meant to look exclusive, but always feel inclusive” was at the core of the brand identity. Simple, elegant, and timeless met fresh, soulful, and authentic for a modern aesthetic with a classic feel.

The inspiration for Sugar Hill is elegant and authentic with an energetic spirit. The dark colors give the brand a moody and relaxing feel, conveying the exciting yet comforting atmosphere of Sugar Hill.

BRAND IDENTITY

Sugarh hill secondary logo in yellow, cream, and black on green background
Sugar Hill primary logo in green and yellow on cream background

Sugar Hill lounge of two chairs with a small round table
Sugar Hill cream color
Sugar Hill circle signage with the secondary logo
Sugar Hill color in yellow
Sugar Hill green color
Two friends laughing together
Red drink in glass on table
Sugar Hill white color

Yellow text that reads "AaBbCc"
White text that reads "GT Aplina Cnd Thin"
White text that reads "Acumin Pro Cnd"
Yellow text that reads the alaphabet

White text repeating in all caps that reads "Sugar Hill"
White text in all caps "La's Sweet Spot" over top an image of people cheering with their drinks
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