A Peek Inside Blueprint Cocktail Bar, Opening in May in The Long Tan Space

I had a chance earlier today to take a look around the space that's currently being transformed into Blueprint, a cocktail and internationally-inspired small plates bar coming soon to 194 5th Avenue (between Berkeley and Union), in half of the old Long Tan space.

Owner Rory Dwyer (who owned Long Tan and also co-owns High Dive, Commonwealth, and Sharlene's) is working hard to make the bar look like it's been there for a long time, using lots of dark wood, leather stools, and wall and ceiling tiles that resemble pressed tin. Plywood went up outside today, and a brand new, vintage-inspired storefront will be installed with glass from The Stained Glass Store, further down Fifth Avenue.

The faux-pressed tin that will be affixed to the walls and ceiling

The bar itself will be extra-long, and four small bar-height tables will be attached to the wall opposite the bar. There'll be a small seating area in the back of the room as well. A large outdoor garden will also be opened up in the summertime. 

Seating area in the back

Owners Rory Dwyer and Regina Christiansen survey the scene

"I hope it all comes together. I still can't put all the pieces of the puzzle together in my mind," said Dwyer.

"I can," added business partner Regina Christiansen, who was also a longtime bartender at Long Tan.