California Clipper

The California Clipper in Chicago’s Humboldt Park, redesigned by Siren Betty Design, preserves the bar’s historic soul while introducing a new level of polish. The interior celebrates its 1930s origins with rich wood, vintage materials, and signature red lighting that invite guests to step back into another era.

The design team set out to maintain the Clipper’s original charm while creating a refreshed experience rooted in nostalgia. Existing furnishings were restored, and new pieces were carefully selected to complement the retro aesthetic, blending authentic vintage finds with newly crafted elements that appear timeless. The bar’s iconic red lighting was preserved and enhanced with fixtures salvaged from a 1920s corner tavern. On the lounge side, a custom sapele-wood bar inspired by the original was installed and illuminated with lighting reminiscent of the building’s theatrical past. The restored flooring, repainted millwork, and newly built drink rail connect the entire space, resulting in a design that reflects Siren Betty Design’s modern interpretation of Chicago’s enduring legacy.

Photos by Clayton Hauck courtesy of Orbit Hospitality.