Sweet Loretta Bar

Sweet Loretta Bar, designed by Victor Choy in collaboration with FRANK Architecture, is a retro-inspired, late-night venue located in Calgary’s vibrant design and arts district. This inclusive lounge and disco draws inspiration from the city’s rich history of iconic music venues and the lively spirit of past nightlife experiences. It serves as a creative haven for like-minded individuals passionate about design, art, architecture, and music. Sweet Loretta offers a dynamic atmosphere featuring rotating resident DJs, live music, and emerging artists, paired with exceptional food and drink.

Inspired by the golden age of nightlife, Sweet Loretta pays tribute to retro tiki bars, vintage sound studios, and the pulsating energy of 70s discos. The design concept was influenced by legendary venues like Mercury, Republik, Embassy, and Deluxe Lounge, aiming to revive the nostalgic essence of these iconic spaces. This vision was brought to life through the meticulous interior fit-out of an existing building, previously home to a furniture store and design studio. The renovation, completed by VC Contracting, involved numerous collaborations with local artists and trades to achieve a highly detailed and custom design

Key design elements that embody the retro inspiration include the unique geometric millwork ceiling, custom lighting, and vintage furnishings. The ceiling, inspired by midcentury architect John Lautner, was expertly constructed by VC Contracting, adding a striking visual element to the space. Custom lighting by Stock & Custom, along with modified vintage fixtures, reinforce the vintage sound studio and tiki vibe, creating an inviting ambiance.

The main level of Sweet Loretta features a suspended mid-century style fireplace that serves as a central focal point, complemented by artworks by Ken Samuelson. The feature bar boasts custom tiles by Becky McMaster of Workshop Studios, while the retro interpretation of parquet flooring, installed by VC Contracting, adds an intricate and unique touch. In the lower lounge, custom artworks by Alex Rombough, inspired by a 1960s portrait, adorn the walls beside the tiki bar, where carefully curated artifacts and ephemera tell stories of the designer’s travels to Hawaii.

A standout aspect of Sweet Loretta is its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. The project incorporates many found and existing objects, repurposed or reinvented to suit the design concept. Vintage lighting, furniture, artwork, and sound studio equipment were all locally sourced and made, minimizing waste and reducing the building’s carbon footprint. This sustainable approach not only preserves resources but also adds a unique character to the space.

The ultimate goal was to create a music-forward safe space that fosters creative conversation and relationships within the arts community. Since its opening, Sweet Loretta has become a beloved local venue, known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong following.