A Glimpse Inside Salty Bear Brewery: Erin Morris's Perspective
Located in the vibrant heart of a mixed-use redevelopment created by The LAB group out of Costa Mesa, Salty Bear Brewery stands out as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts and community events. Designed by the Erin Morris team, this brewery offers more than just a place to enjoy a refreshing pint—it provides a welcoming atmosphere tailored to bring people together.
Furnishing and finishes were layered together to ensure that Salty Bear Brewery is not just another bar but a community hub. With its eclectic vibe and comfortable ambiance, Salty Bear is dedicated to creating casual, connected moments and serving top-notch brews to everyone who visits (except the kids, obviously, who love to convene in the teepee outside).
Concept and Design Philosophy
Salty Bear founder Joe Scagliotti approached Erin Morris with a singular vision: to create a space that resonates with warmth and inclusivity. This vision translated into several innovative design concepts that make Salty Bear stand out. (That, and bathrooms that he could keep impeccably clean! Thanks, Joe!)
Central to these innovations was the desire to accommodate not just beer aficionados but also families, Joe’s mom, and her friends. To this end, the brewery is one part durable old-school corner bar, one part celebration of a working brewery (equipment and all), and one part just funky and fun.
Design Details and Customer Journey
The interior of Salty Bear Brewery celebrates the gathering of different size groups by including various seating options to suit different group sizes and preferences—from cozy barstools, and banquettes imbued with a vintage feel to communal tables and relaxed living room settings.
Each piece of furniture is not only durable and functional but also contributes to the overall aesthetic of vintage familiarity mixed with unique design elements. Add to that, funky wallpaper and strategically placed large plants infuse the space with life and vibrancy, enhancing the customer journey from the entrance to the bar.
Challenges and Technical Coordination
Converting the space from ancient single-use industrial presented its own set of challenges, particularly with the need for significant utility upgrades to support a modern brewery. From structural engineering necessary for equipment to new water service there was plenty of technical coordination to move the project forward. This process involved close collaboration with the client, landlord, and specialty brew contractor CLTVT to make sure everything was integrated.
Collaboration and Local Impact
Salty Bear Brewery's aesthetic is further enriched through The LAB’s collaborations with local artists and craftspeople. This creative synergy is most evident in the brewery’s patio area, which features custom artwork and a tipi arrangement that gives the essence of a Californian retreat. The addition of twinkling lights keeps the conversations of the evening gatherings glowing.
Collaboration with the brew-focused contracting team at CLTVT was crucial; their expertise in brewing technology greatly influenced the functionality of the brewery, ensuring optimal operational flow.
Visit Salty Bear Brewery
Through Erin Morris’s approach, the brewery serves not only as a functional space for beer production and enjoyment but also as a showcase of community ideals. This project beautifully demonstrates the impact of thoughtful design on the brewery experience, highlighting how a well-conceived approach can enhance the establishment's identity.
If you're interested in the transformative effects of innovative architecture across various sectors, check out more of Erin Morris's projects!