Our initial design challenge was to differentiate Shelter from the increasingly ubiquitous selection of cocktail bars. In a city of well-traveled, affluent professionals, the bar is high. Shelter aims to break from convention and cliche, by delivering a distinctly European setting in the heart of the new west.

While the inspiration behind Shelter is international, its execution was entirely local. 21 vintage gas masks were sourced globally and designed by local Calgary artists, each putting their own unique style, design, and ethos into the mask they chose. The custom iron and metal grating surrounding the kitchen, was crafted by local fabricators. The handmade iron and burlap sunshades cast a delicate umbra on the cozy, outdoor patio.

Combining elements from high-end hotel bars across the USA and original industrial grunge styles from Berlin and Eastern Europe, SHELTER is a juxtaposition of opulent and casual. With a moody, low-lit backdrop featuring over 5,000 individual bulbs, our design work featured artwork inspired by cold war era propaganda posters, clever touches of military-style design, and an iconic logo to ensure a memorable brand.