The next time you find yourself in Norfolk, Virginia, make sure to visit Hilton Norfolk The Main for an unforgettable dining experience at Varia, the city’s premier trattoria-inspired Italian restaurant and wine bar.
Nestled on the second floor of this luxury hotel, Varia offers an elegant and inviting atmosphere, but its most intriguing feature lies just beyond a set of swiveling bookcases—The Vault, a hidden gem that promises an extraordinary private dining experience.
Step through the bookcase entrance and into a space that exudes exclusivity and charm. The Vault’s arched ceilings are adorned with shimmering onyx tiles, casting a warm glow that enhances the Art Deco-inspired details reminiscent of a bygone era. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or hosting an intimate gathering, this hidden sanctuary provides a setting unlike any other in Norfolk.
At the heart of The Vault is an exquisite architectural feature—a custom 20-foot-wide sapele mahogany folding door by ActivWall. Designed to complement the space’s grandeur, this solid wood Folding Door features etched opaque glass panels and is crowned with a bespoke arched transom, adding to the room’s timeless elegance.
This top-hung system with paired panels is as functional as it is beautiful. Effortlessly gliding open, it allows The Vault to accommodate up to 50 guests for grand celebrations. When closed, it creates two intimate dining spaces, ensuring flexibility for different events. For occasions requiring a semi-private feel, the door can be partially opened to act as a subtle room divider.
Michael Cubilete, Varia’s Restaurant Manager, states, “The Vault doors drive curiosity for onlookers. Once the doors have your attention, you get this feeling you can’t shake until you see what’s behind them.” He added, “So often, you hear guests gasp at the beauty of the shimmering onyx ceiling tiles and the stunning Art Deco flourishes as the doors glide open.”
Like the showstopping door at Varia, every ActivWall Horizontal Folding Door is custom-manufactured to meet the unique design needs of our customers. We offer custom sizes, configurations, and a range of glass and sill options to suit any project. Additional features such as SDL (simulated divided lites), integrated panic hardware for commercial applications, and a floor-mounted system for spaces where header support is a challenge ensure that each door is both functional and stylish.
Proudly made in the USA, ActivWall products combine innovative design with exceptional craftsmanship, delivering solutions that transform spaces with beauty and versatility. Whether for a restaurant, office, or luxury residence, we can create a custom opening system tailored to your needs.
Discover how ActivWall can help you redefine your space with custom-crafted folding doors and windows. Contact us today to discuss your project and bring your vision to life.
Acknowledgments: Story by ActivWall. Photos provided by Varia. Video filmed by Sara Wagner and edited by Jennifer Doss. Voiceover by Kacel Witcher. Special thanks to Michael Cubilete and Sara Wagner of Varia.
