Era Bistro at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Era Bistro is an elegant 77-seat bistro located on the ground floor of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, one of the world’s most architecturally progressive buildings. The goal was to create an elegant, comfortable and contemplative atmosphere for museum visitors, while serving as a destination restaurant for patrons seeking a world-class lunch, dinner, or event experience.

The bistro design was inspired by the underlying concepts and themes championed within the museum. Inside, visitors experience a natural, authentic, raw, and earthy décor, ideal for contemplation and reflection. The restaurant features an open display kitchen, creating an engaging and interactive dining experience.

A custom large-scale ceiling feature consisting of nine aluminum ellipses is suspended above the bistro’s 13-foot-long elm wood tables, contrasting the heavy massing of the space with a reflective and sculptural design element. Theatrical lighting casts subtle patterning and colour, bringing an ethereal quality to the space.

Adjacent the restaurant, Number TEN also designed the museum’s boutique, which offers museum guests a comfortable shopping experience for souvenirs and gifts.