Three Bears

The two-storey brewery and restaurant located in Banff National Park, required a thoughtful approach to structural design to integrate restaurant and brewery operational needs while supporting the architectural vision of a mountain inspired interior. The overarching goal informing all aspects of the project design was bringing the outdoors in, creating an experience connected to nature and true to the local surroundings. A large retractable skylight filters natural light and fresh mountain air down to the main level and allows patrons to look up at the open night sky through a framed timber structure.

Constructed using exposed glulam and cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, and featuring a rich interior palette of cedar, hickory, oak and charred wood, the integration of wood brings warmth, texture, and strength to the building. Upon entering the restaurant, the visible structure is composed of timber beams and panels that express a simplicity and honesty of construction. The main floor dining experience is casual, approachable and open to the brewery, while the second level is activated by a dedicated bar and open kitchen concept.

The warmth of the interior palette is accented by exposed copper beer lines and locally sourced plantings, including a 25 ft pine tree in the centre of the space. The final result is a stylish brewery and restaurant that reflects the outdoor lifestyle and mountain culture of the area – fresh, honest, raw and approachable.