At Harrisburg’s 704 Lounge, a stunning, upscale addition is ready for its close-up.
Several years ago, owners Brett Johnson and Russ Harr bought the circa-1881 townhouse next door to their original bar, both located across the street from the state Capitol complex. They then began a series of renovations that removed part of the wall that divided the two properties, adding a new kitchen and second-floor bar area.
Like that, the new Cielo Lounge was born (in Italian, cielo means sky or heavens).
In the beautiful addition, guests can sit comfortably and admire the work of local and national artists along with a colorful collection of Depression-era glass gleaming in the built-in display case. The space has a partially enclosed nook perfect for private conversations. A Chihuly-inspired, hand-blown chandelier takes center stage in the original foyer, which has a clean, modern feel with Victorian-era details about the room.
“Anything from 1881, we kept,” said Harr of the historic townhouse.
The property has been lovingly restored to show off its best assets. Prominently featured in the foyer is the original fireplace, gorgeous stained-glass windows and a winding staircase, which the wait staff uses to access the new, second-floor bar servicing the Cielo Lounge.
Johnson meticulously designed the Cielo Lounge with Brazilian Koa wood floors, wall coverings from Germany, rosewood mahogany tables and sparkling light fixtures by Yale. 2D artwork by Orna Amrani is hung as a focal point along the main wall.
Gold, bronze and silver accents provide a romantic and relaxed atmosphere in the sunken bar lounge. Step up through the sliding glass doors and the glowing rooftop invites you to admire the Pennsylvania State Museum and Capitol building. The rooftop also has one of the best views for fireworks in the city.
“You don’t even have to bend your neck,” said Johnson of the view.
The Cielo Lounge has a state-of-the-art sound system and is equipped to host business meetings and events. Though the space just opened, there are already two weddings booked, as well as several social and charity events.
The lounge also functions as a dance floor on Fridays and Saturdays with different themes like salsa and swing nights led by dance instructors.
704 Lounge offer a tapas menu and a new drink list with specialty cocktails, some with edible flowers. Speakeasy nights feature old-fashioned concoctions sourced from a 1920s drink recipe book found by Johnson. On Sundays, you can make your own bloody Mary from your choice of three kinds of tomato juice, a house mix and all manner of garnishes. Wait staff takes drink orders from both the lounge and rooftop.
The renovations have been a labor of love for Johnson and Harr. They explained that some of the inspiration for designing the Cielo Lounge came from places they’ve visited like Upstairs at the Kimberly atop the Kimberly Hotel in Manhattan. Johnson couldn’t recall a place in Los Angeles that could quite match what they’ve achieved at 704 Lounge.
“Everything is designed,” said Johnson, a long-time professional in the field. “From the wall coverings and silks to original art, it’s all hand done.”
Johnson worked as a designer and project consultant in L.A. when he met Harr, who had moved from Pennsylvania in 1990. Harr found success managing artists for events such as the Oscars, which he continues to do. In 2010, they relocated to Harrisburg and created Bar 704, the original name for the business before two expansions.
“I never thought I’d come back,” said Harr of the return to his home state.
The affordability of the area has allowed them to do what they love and do it with style. In the five years that they’ve been open, 704 Lounge has become known for its annual Night of Glamour, which celebrates the Oscars during its live broadcast. Along with a red carpet, awards are offered for the best-dressed man, woman and couple of the evening.
Neither Johnson nor Harr would have guessed they’d one day own a bar, but their love of people and art led them to where they are now.
“We are very proud,” Johnson said of their establishment. “It’s an ‘everybody’ bar.”
704 Lounge is located at 704 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.704pa.com or call 717-234-4226.
