Amanda Hamilton Interior Design has transformed a chicken shop in Calgary‘s East Village neighborhood into a vibrant and playful space with a nostalgic twist. The 2,200-square-foot restaurant, called Strip Joint Chicken, serves chicken fingers with a unique twist. The design concept was inspired by the 1990s and Memphis style, resulting in a fun and cheeky atmosphere that perfectly reflects the brand’s identity.
The interior design features bold color-blocking and neon lighting, creating an elevated interpretation of a seedy bar or nightclub. The ordering area is marked by a trio of colorful stripes that also spell out the brand’s name on the wall. The main entrance vestibule sets the tone with its midnight blue paint and vertical bands of neon lighting.
The main dining area continues the neon theme, with tangled fluorescent-blue tubes above the bar and service counter, and LED strips within large color-blocked arches that provide built-in seating for dining tables.
The flow of people through the space was carefully considered, and wayfinding tools were implemented to assist both dine-in and take-out customers. Thin, colored stripes are inlaid across the floors to guide patrons to the ordering area, and the brand’s name is prominently displayed on a wall above a pink scallop-topped bench.
The central arch is embellished with a unique feathery wallpaper, adding a touch of elegance to the area. Inside the bathrooms, which are painted in a soft neutral tone, the walls are also adorned with the same custom-designed wallpaper. These bathrooms are discreetly hidden behind vibrant pink doors.
For guests who plan on staying longer, there is a private dining area called the Hens Den. This secluded space is concealed by sheer drapery, ensuring privacy for diners. The dining table in this monochromatic room features a brass pole at its center, with a lazy susan placed on top for convenient sharing of food.
According to Hamilton, the majority of the furniture in the space is custom-made, adding a playful and artistic element to the overall design. This unique furniture serves as a captivating focal point and is sure to spark interesting conversations among guests.