Getting the room right
Lighting, sound and acoustics decide whether a bar feels lively or just loud. We plan for layers of dimmable lighting, a sound system that covers the room evenly, and surfaces that absorb enough noise to keep conversation possible. Our electrical crew, led by a Master Electrician, installs the lighting and power, and our low voltage group installs audio, video, TVs and surveillance.
Occupancy is critical. The approved occupant load controls exits, washrooms and fire protection, and liquor licensing authorities in Alberta also look at the layout. Confirm those requirements with us early so the plan and the licence application agree.
The bar itself
A working bar is a plumbing and refrigeration project built into millwork. Draft lines, glycol systems, ice machines, bar sinks, glass washers and under-bar refrigeration all need power, drainage and water in exactly the right place. Our mechanical crew handles the plumbing and ventilation, and our carpenters build the bar top, back-bar and shelving to suit the equipment.
If you serve food, a kitchen adds hood, exhaust, make-up air and grease handling. We design and build these together with the bar so the systems share capacity and do not fight each other.
- Bar millwork, rails and back-bar
- Draft, glycol and refrigeration support
- Sound, TVs and lighting controls
- Kitchen exhaust where food is served
What to plan for
Washroom counts and accessibility often surprise owners of older buildings. Check them early. Also consider smoking and patio rules, entry sequences for age verification, and security coverage for doors, cash handling and exterior areas.
Neighbours matter too. Sound transmission to adjacent units or apartments can become a problem after opening, so address it in the walls and ceilings during construction rather than afterward.
Compliance and licensing
A bar's licence and its construction go hand in hand. Capacity, washrooms, exits and the bar layout all need to match what the licensing and building authorities expect. We review drawings against those requirements early and coordinate inspections, so the opening date is not held up by a missed detail.
Our crews also install the security and surveillance systems many operators want from day one.