Award-winning architecture and interior design firm McKinley Burkart unveiled The Wednesday Room, an intimate and nostalgic space located on bustling Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary.
The lovechild of a sophisticated lounge from the 1960s and a house party at your eclectic uncle’s home, The Wednesday Room’s design creates a laid-back yet upscale lounge atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and enjoy. Walnut wall-paneling, textured plaster, mixed metals and luxurious textiles create a distinctly residential feel, accented by custom furniture, lighting pieces, and quirky found objects courtesy of Tableau Studios.
Nestled in the historic Tribune Block on Stephen Avenue, the space provided plenty of distinct design features for McKinley Burkart’s team to work with, including original stone walls, pressed tin ceilings and hardwood floors. The eclecticism of the space, complemented by custom art from Carvel Creative and Ben Skinner, as well as the layered textures of the design, result in a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. With a brand focus on hospitality, the design truly is about the people – creating a classy lounge atmosphere mixed with a laid-back, retro-vibe. Craft cocktails and secret family recipes contribute to a dynamic and flavor-forward menu that pairs perfectly with the richly layered space.
As a part of a holistic vision, McKinley Burkart’s branding and graphics division, Little Sister, is the brains behind the brand for The Wednesday Room. Playful icons pay homage to Stanley Kubrick films including The Shining, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Dr. Strangelove, and Lolita; this nostalgic nod likely only recognized by the most die-hard fans. With a multitude of applications throughout the project, these icons adorn coasters, stir sticks, and menus, establishing The Wednesday Room as a blast from the past.
