Bar Henry unveils sleek Italian-inspired lounge
Bar Henry’s sleek Italian-inspired lounge earns a GRAY Awards finalist spot for its luxurious, space-savvy design.
Bar Henry, a sleek Italian-modern bar inside Henry Singer’s flagship store in Calgary, has been named a finalist in the 8th annual GRAY Awards for hospitality design. The space, photographed by Ema Peter, was created to extend the 85-year-old luxury retailer’s brand into the culinary world while maintaining its reputation for craftsmanship and opulence.
Design challenges turned into deliberate luxury
The bar occupies a small area, limited by existing structural walls and a split-level floor. The design team used these constraints as inspiration. Every detail was planned for function and flow, allowing guests to move easily between the dining area, kitchen, and bar despite seating for fewer than 30 people.
The space avoids feeling crowded. Warm burled walnut panels contrast with chrome accents, resembling the interior of a high-end cigar box. Custom furnishings, including barstools and dining sets, enhance the exclusive atmosphere. The menu is equally refined, featuring a signature espresso blend, a curated wine list, and dishes tailored to the kitchen’s limited equipment.
The venue wasn’t built for large crowds. It caters to a small, selective audience that expects precision in every detail, from a glass of wine to the culinary experience.
A brand’s legacy in a compact setting
Henry Singer’s new flagship store is more than just a retail space; it’s a homage to an 85-year legacy while adopting the brand’s future. Bar Henry was introduced as a culinary extension, embodying the brand’s dedication to connoisseurship and opulence.
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The bar’s design reflects Italian Modernism. Materials and finishes were selected to mirror Henry Singer’s values of quality, craftsmanship, and exquisite taste. Even the wait-list area received the same attention as the dining space, ensuring no detail was overlooked.
For McKinley Studios, the project focused on more than appearance. It aimed to create a space that embodies the Henry Singer ethos, where every interaction—from the first sip of espresso to the last bite of a dish—reinforces the brand’s dedication to quality. The bar’s integration into a corner of the store makes its execution even more impressive.
The seamless connection between the bar and the flagship’s daily operations stands out. Shoppers can enjoy a coffee or glass of wine without feeling disconnected from the store. The bar isn’t just an addition; it’s part of the retailer’s broader vision—a destination for luxury, not merely a place to purchase it.
Judges for the GRAY Awards will assess this balance of intimacy and sophistication. Winners will be announced later this year.
The project was led by Jenn Mehrer, director of interior design, and Caelan Tatz, the lead designer. Furniture procurement was managed by mknly procurement.
