Small but perfectly formed: maximising every inch at Finch…

As a creative partner to the hospitality industry, Faber’s passion for telling each venue’s story through design is attracting some of the sector’s most discerning names—from Michelin-starred restaurants to global brands. The team brings its clients’ visions to life by paying close attention to every customer touch point and how they work together. Nothing is considered in isolation during Faber’s ‘experience mapping’ process. And this distinct approach is a key part of the creative team’s ‘immersive hospitality’ philosophy, developed to enable venues to showcase their unique identities and stand out in a saturated market. The team took used this philosophy for Finch! 

As Aesop is famously quoted: ‘good things come in small packages’—and Finch’s size is undoubtedly part of its charm. The latest offering from wine-focused experience company Grays & Feather, this Forbes-recommended bar stands on the corner of Brixton’s historic market. And occupying just 3.5m2, it’s possibly Faber & Company’s smallest project to date!

Finch is a drop of affordable decadence. Named after the small and social bird, it’s a passion project by renowned wine expert Andrew Gray. Described as a ‘pocket-sized cabinet of curiosities’ it seats just twelve guests inside. But capacity is more than doubled by an undercover outdoor seating area (where, in true community spirit, food can be ordered from local restaurants via the TableSnappr app).

Finch boasts a variety of experimental tipples from around the world, with its spotlight mainly focused on English sparkling wines that are complemented by a selection of well-paired small plates. Inside, a luxurious marble bar top and contrasting stripes—which take their colours from the European Gold Finch’s plume—are set against a monochrome floor. Practical but elegant brass racking lines the walls, creating a home for the many drink choices on offer.

And if you look up, you can take in its spectacular ceiling—which features a circular trompe l’oeil of finches and floating gold feathers that add a touch of magic.

When embarking on this venture, Finch’s founder set out to create ‘a sense of theatre that sparks conversation’. And whether you start or end your night at this Brixton gem, it’s clear to see that Faber has succeeded in bringing his vision to life…

Photography by Richard Southall