Located on the first floor of a mixed-use building on Madison’s Capitol Square, a former bank branch was renovated to fit the owner’s vision for a retail space that celebrates a community of wine. Dedicated to supporting and selling wines crafted by small, family growers, Square Wine Company’s new space promotes a friendly approach to wine retail.

The new space promotes “hands on” retail, with a tasting bar to help customers find a favorite and a cozy nook by the entrance to settle in and get acquainted. The store’s central aisle was left intentionally empty to allow space for the owner’s preferred display method – stacked boxes. Custom-designed racks line the wall opposite the tasting bar. Reminiscent of a library with towering shelves of books, the racks use height where the narrow space lacks width. Customers are encouraged to browse inventory using ladders to scale to the uppermost shelves.

The project reused and reimagined much of the existing elements from the previous tenant for economy and sustainability. White ceiling tiles were painted black, and the existing wood grid above the bar was refinished and used to anchor lights.  Porcelain tile was removed and the concrete sub floor refinished. Butcher block countertops were created from scraps at a millworker’s shop.

The finish palette is intended to blend modern, industrial, and sophisticated materials. Its approachable feel is aligned with the tenant’s growth from a startup company to an established brand on the Capitol Square.