A Blank Canvas

Four passionateJoburgers bring a novel concept toParkhursts beloved4thAvenue, proving that in the end the only constant ischange

- Roberta Thatcher

“If you don’t enjoy doing something, then stop.” That’s the motto of fierce foursome, Rob and Taryn Laing, and Andrew and Vicky Harris, who, for the past three years, have been working together in opening successful restaurants and event spaces across Johannesburg.

The proud owners of Nice on 4th – a wonderful breakfast and brunch hotspot in Parkhurst – two successful Milk Bars – in George Lea Park and Rosebank – as well as two grand event spaces, you’d think the couples are looking to slow down, but, when the opportunity for their latest venture presented itself, they jumped at the chance to expand their portfolio.

And so, the vibrant 4th Avenue in Parkhurst welcomed its newest kid on the block, Blank Bar, an activation space that pretty much sums up the Laings’ and Harrises’ ethos that work should be fun. A blank canvas, so to speak, the empty space allows them to share their passion for niche alcohol brands in fresh and exciting formats, all the while educating their customers on the many different ways these spirits can be enjoyed.

So, what is it? In a nutshell, Blank Bar is a pop-up venue with a major difference. Instead of renting out the space for activations, the Laings and Harrises run all the pop-ups themselves, changing the theme every 25 days. Each theme sees the celebration of a different type of alcohol, with past editions including vodka – in celebration of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia – local gins, and whiskies from the Far East.

The activations are aimed at showcasing lesser-known brands, making the Blank Bar experience all the more enticing. “You will not find massive commercial names and their umbrellas here,” Andrew emphasises.