Case Study: Soiled Dove

Overview

Designing and Constructing the Soiled Dove Speakeasy

The Soiled Dove, a brand new speakeasy in the town of Idaho Falls, was born from an ambitious vision: a unique, vintage-inspired bar paired with an innovative small-space kitchen. Our team collaborated closely with Jake, the owner, to bring this concept to life, transforming a blank canvas of walls and concrete flooring into a fully operational speakeasy.

The Challenge

Jake first approached us to discuss bar equipment and layout concepts. By the time construction began, it became clear that the project faced significant hurdles, including:

1. Undefined Layout: The initial space was barebones, with no defined bar or kitchen layout.
2. Small Kitchen Area: A compact kitchen with low ceilings made traditional solutions like a hood system impractical.
3. Functional Constraints: The limited kitchen footprint needed to support a menu ambitious enough to complement the bar’s upscale theme.

The Solution

Step 1: Designing the Bar Layout

Understanding that the bar would be the centerpiece, we prioritized its design. We collaborated with Jake onsite, analyzing the space and proposing layouts that balanced customer flow, bartender efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Once Jake approved the bar design, we shifted focus to the more complex kitchen challenges.

Step 2: Innovating for a Small-Space Kitchen

The kitchen required a creative, space-efficient solution. With low ceilings and no option for a traditional hood system, we explored several configurations, refining the design through multiple iterations. Ultimately, we developed a functional and compliant setup featuring:

• A ventless convection oven for baking and roasting.
• A Pratica speed oven for high-efficiency cooking.
• Induction burners to maximize cooking versatility without overwhelming the space.

This equipment allowed Jake’s team to execute an impressive menu while adhering to local regulations and space limitations.