The challenge: Transform a historic structure that was once dynamite storage for Sun Valley, Idaho into a modern beer and wine bar appealing to locals and tourists alike. The original stone walls served as the shell, and thanks to a previous adaptive reuse renovation by Olson Kundig, we also had blackened steel elements to work with. Using these materials as the inspiration, we designed the main attraction: A fully custom blackened steel and plywood bar and back bar, including a sliding blackboard for featured beer and wine lists.

Continuing the reuse theme, a reclaimed 10” solid beam was added to the base of the bar to act as a footrest. The light fixtures we selected for above the bar blend in perfectly into the setting.

To make the most of the limited space, we designed a wall-wrapping bench made from plywood and added simple tables and chairs for a minimalist look. The lower level seating was replicated on the upper level, this time with leather cushions and freestanding fireplace was added to complete the look.