Nestled within a quiet, unbecoming corner of Fallsview’s bustling arcade, mackaywong embarked on a journey to transform a humble t-shirt emporium into a haven of opulence and allure, beckoning show-goers and wanderers alike. Envisioned was a sanctuary where elegance met indulgence, where every sip whispered tales of sophistication amidst the embrace of velvet and spirits sweet.
Inspiration for this space coursed through the veins of history, alighting upon the Caroline Affair, a tale woven into the fabric of the Niagara’s tumultuous waters in 1836. Here, the flames of passion ignited, echoing through time in ornate brass and regal adornments reminiscent of Victorian splendor. A tapestry of deep azure carpets, woven with the currents of the Niagara River, guides patrons towards the heart of the establishment.
Two sanctuaries await: a coffee bar, adorned with the gleam of a copper Elektra Belle Epoque, promising the finest brews and delicate pastries; and a cocktail haven, its stone countertop a stage for premium libations, mirrored by a backdrop of smoked glass, reflecting the allure of coveted spirits.
Crimson draperies, like whispers of flame, cascade in regal swathes, shielding patrons from the clamor of the outside world, enveloping them in the embrace of the Caroline’s fiery tale. And amidst the plush embrace of crushed velvet, hues of orange, pink, and navy danced in harmony, a poetic tribute to the ship’s glowing demise, spanning the length of the lounge, 71 feet in homage to the vessel’s final voyage.
Photography by David Whittaker
