More than simply a bar, it is a sculptural statement that showcases the confident modernism and exceptional craftsmanship for which both Tabraham and Kallenbach are renowned.
Masterfully crafted in richly figured Kiaat. Rather than relying on ornament, its striking presence comes from a series of sharply faceted planes that project and recess in a bold, geometric composition.
As you move around the cabinet, the silhouette continually changes, revealing a sculptural quality that blurs the line between furniture and functional art.
An exceptional and very rare South African bar, distinguished by its bold geometric silhouette, where sharply angled forms, layered surfaces and a floating upper serving counter combine to create a piece that commands attention from every perspective.
The stepped upper display shelves appear to float above the main cabinet, while the horizontal slatted front introduces rhythm and depth without interrupting the warmth of the timber. Rounded edges soften the otherwise angular form, creating a sophisticated balance between strong geometry and organic material.
Throughout the piece, the quality of craftsmanship is unmistakable, from the substantial Kiaat construction to the exposed through dovetail joinery and carefully executed detailing.
Furniture of this calibre was produced in very limited numbers, reflecting a period when South African manufacturers confidently interpreted international modernist influences through the country's exceptional indigenous timbers.
Both highly functional and undeniably sculptural, this is a statement piece that anchors a room
The horizontal slatted front introduces rhythm and depth, while the stepped upper counter appears to float above the main cabinet, creating a striking interplay of light, shadow and form. Softly rounded edges temper the bold geometry, allowing the warmth and character of the Kiaat to remain the defining feature throughout.
The reverse is as thoughtfully considered as the front, making the cabinet equally suited to stand freely within a room. Generous open shelving, enclosed storage cupboards and expansive serving surfaces provide ample space for bottles, glassware and entertaining essentials.
Designed to be appreciated from every angle, this versatile cabinet is equally at home as a sophisticated Bar and get-together place in your home, drinks station, a retail or reception counter, a restaurant or hospitality feature, or a striking centrepiece within an open-plan living space. Its sculptural form and practical layout allow it to adapt effortlessly to a wide range of interiors.
Condition:
Fully restored and presented in excellent vintage condition. During its previous life, the piece sustained significant damage all over, but even more so to the right-hand side, which had to be repaired using a solid Kiaat replacement section.
The Kiaat has been fully restored, stripped, sanded and resealed, enhancing the richness and depth of the timber while remaining faithful to the integrity of the original design.
The repair remains visible on close inspection, as shown in the photographs, and has been intentionally retained as an honest record of the cabinet's history. It reflects a carefully executed restoration that preserves both the integrity and continued functionality of this exceptional piece.
Dimensions:
Width point-to-point: 220 cm W x 38.5cm D x 97.5cm H (This is basically the floor space it will occupy).
Front serving counter: 30cm D x 97.5cm H
Back serving counter: 38.5cm D x 74.5cm H
Shipping Information:
If you are purchasing an item and you are based in Cape Town, Durban, or any area outside Gauteng, please select the 'LOCAL PICK-UP' option at check-out and do not choose a shipment option.
Please be aware that we cannot reserve any items until transportation or shipping arrangements have been finalized. Therefore, it is important to purchase the item and proceed with the checkout process.
After your purchase is complete, you are welcome to arrange your own method of transport. If you require our assistance, we can help you obtain a shipping quote based on the dimensions & volumetric weight of the item(s) you have bought.
Please email us at shop@retrend.co.za so we can provide cost estimates for shipping to your area from our preferred suppliers. For more detailed information, please refer to our shipping policy.
Note/Disclaimer:
Our images form part of the item description. While we make every effort to restore our furniture to its original state, most pieces date from the 1950s to the late 1970s. As a result, and despite restoration, signs of their vintage nature and previous life may still be visible. Light traces of restoration may remain visible, consistent with authentic vintage furniture. In some cases, minor adjustments may also have been made during the restoration process to ensure the piece remains functional and usable. We will point out any notable aspects where possible. We encourage in-store viewing or careful review of photographs before purchase.
Transport & Handling Note:
All items are carefully wrapped and prepared for transport by us (not the courier) to ensure safe handling. Once items leave our premises, we cannot take responsibility for their treatment by third-party transporters. We strongly recommend arranging goods-in-transit insurance for comprehensive protection.
Due to the fragility of glass, we do not recommend shipping glass items outside of Gauteng.
For the full shipping policy, please refer to our Shipping Policy for more information: https://retrend.co.za/policies/shipping-policy
As with many Mid-Century pieces, this item features a thoughtful combination of solid wood and high-quality wood veneer. Veneer has a long and respected tradition in furniture making, valued for both its aesthetic and structural benefits. When crafted with skill and applied in substantial thickness, vintage veneer proves highly durable, allowing for careful restoration, including retouching, sanding, and refinishing without compromising the integrity of the piece.