In the competitive hospitality industry, the ambiance of a restaurant is just as important as the menu. For Tapas y Tintos, a renowned wine bar and Spanish restaurant nestled in the heart of Española Way—the goal was clear: create an environment that captures the lively spirit of its surroundings while offering elegance, comfort, and functionality. That’s where expert restaurant millwork came into play.
At Lignum Custom Design, we understand that custom-built interiors are more than aesthetic enhancements. They are essential elements in shaping a brand’s identity and enhancing the overall guest experience. Our collaboration with Tapas y Tintos highlights how thoughtful millwork can elevate a space from ordinary to unforgettable.
A recent 2023 survey by Hospitality Interiors Journal revealed that 67% of restaurant-goers associate interior design with perceived food quality and service expectations. For wine bars and dining spaces that aim to leave a strong first impression, expertly crafted hospitality millwork adds not only visual impact but also long-term functionality.
At Tapas y Tintos, the millwork needed to do more than look beautiful—it had to withstand high traffic, support daily operations, and echo the energy of Spanish culture. Our work focused on strategic zones such as the wine display, back bar cabinetry, and ceiling and wall paneling, ensuring cohesion and durability throughout.
The wine bar area at Tapas y Tintos is a focal point where guests gather, socialize, and unwind. To enhance its impact, we designed custom wine bar cabinetry featuring floating shelves with LED lighting and decorative scrolling. The use of mirror backing amplified the visual space, creating a dramatic yet refined ambiance.
LED floating shelves ensured both visibility and ambiance for evening service
Broad shelf bases provided durability and storage for a variety of bottle sizes
Scrollwork detailing added a classic Spanish flair while keeping the aesthetic upscale
The result was a feature that combined practical display with artistic expression—perfect for a space built around wine culture and live music.
Tapas y Tintos is famous not just for its cuisine but also for its immersive environment. Live flamenco, tango lessons, and bold décor define the experience. The custom restaurant interiors designed by Lignum brought all of these elements together seamlessly.
Scope of finishes included:
Maple wood veneer ceiling panels that added warmth and natural texture
Decorative tile bar facade reflecting traditional Spanish craftsmanship
Wood wall paneling and upholstered banquettes to support comfort and acoustic control
Back bar shelving tiers and bottle racks for functional, elegant storage
Each element served a purpose: to support workflow while reinforcing cultural authenticity. Everything from the ceiling cladding to the lacquer finishes was coordinated to support both brand identity and guest enjoyment.
A restaurant’s interior must be more than beautiful—it has to endure. Tapas y Tintos needed restaurant millwork solutions that could withstand the pace of a busy hospitality environment. All cabinetry, paneling, and shelving were fabricated with longevity in mind.
Key material selections:
Lacquer finishes for added durability and stain resistance
Maple veneer and hardwood for structural integrity and visual warmth
Polished brass bottle shelving and stainless-steel accents for an upscale touch
Soft-close hinges and reinforced shelf bases for long-term performance
This attention to structural detail ensures that the custom millwork maintains its quality and appearance despite the daily challenges of food service.
Here’s a breakdown of our full restaurant millwork scope for Tapas y Tintos:
Wood Wall Partitions, Ceiling Cladding, Wood Panels
Maple Wood Ceiling Paneling with integrated lighting
Lacquer Finish, Maple Wood Veneer, Mirror Backing
LED Light Floating Shelves, Custom Casework, Bar Millwork
Decorative Tile Bar Facade, Bottle Display Racks
Upholstered Banquettes and Wood Wall Paneling
Located on Española Way, Tapas y Tintos is surrounded by historical architecture, pedestrian plazas, and a lively cultural scene. This location plays a significant role in how the restaurant is perceived.
Guests don’t just come for the wine and tapas, they come for an experience. The custom restaurant interiors created by Lignum align with this goal. They support immersive dining, whether guests are watching a flamenco performance or enjoying a quiet dinner in the cozy booth seating.
Tapas y Tintos saw immediate benefits after the redesign:
✅ The wine bar became a visual anchor that guests continuously compliment
✅ Service areas improved in flow and accessibility thanks to better casework design
✅ The new interior aesthetic aligned with the cultural theme and enhanced branding
Restaurant owners noted increased guest satisfaction and stronger social media engagement due to the “Instagrammable” wine bar shelving and Spanish-style millwork.
Tapas y Tintos is a shining example of how restaurant millwork, when thoughtfully executed, can create lasting impressions and elevate business outcomes. At Lignum Custom Design, we’re proud to collaborate with hospitality venues that value quality, artistry, and brand storytelling.
If you’re looking to transform your dining space through custom interiors that balance form and function, let’s talk.