THE WALKTHROUGH   11.04.08 7:00 AM Layla Lounge Now Available for Corporate Events FROM WASHINGTON With a nameless, nondescript facade nestled in the heart of the D.C. Farmer’s Market, Layla Lounge’s location may not be typical of an upscale nightclub. “We wanted the club to feel like it’s in the Meatpacking District of New York,” said Andrea Cathey, the lounge's event planner. “We saw the opportunity with this building.”  Layla, which debuted in August, recently opened its space to events, and hosted a gala for Black Entertainment Television (BET). Co-owners Ahmad Ayyad and Anthony Jones used design company New York Sound to create two different looks for the two-story space. A door designed to resemble a bank vault opens up to the 1,800-square-foot downstairs space, which is accented by orange leather couches, cherry-wood tables, and custom-made leather panels. “This is more like your neighborhood bar with a lounge feel,” Cathey said. The space can accommodate 300 people. The second story—used as the club’s V.I.P. space—is outfitted with glass panels, chain-link divider curtains, and all-white leather booths lining the perimeter. “It’s a Miami-like atmosphere,” Cathey said. “All of the panels have LED and light up with the music.” At 2,000 square feet, the space can hold as many as 400. Rental options are flexible; full buyouts are available; and the second floor and the main space can be sectioned off for smaller parties. “Everything is movable, even the bar,” said Cathey. “We can connect or take away pieces for the situation.” Noise-canceling technology is installed in both spaces for events held during club hours.   —Robyn Mincher The downstairs area of Layla Lounge, found behind a bank vault-like door, features a neighborhood-bar feel and space for 300 guests. Photo: Courtesy of Layla Lounge The second floor, referred to as "Glass Upstairs," offers more of a Miami-inspired decor, with sleek glass panels outfitted with LED technology that changes with the music. Photo: Courtesy of Layla Lounge Chain-link divider curtains, white banquettes, and built-in bottle service tables lend a contemporary feel. Photo: Courtesy of Layla Lounge RELATED TOPICS BET