Commercial
Kelly O’Bryans Downtown Patio
A downtown Kelowna landmark, Kelly O’Bryan’s (affectionately known around town as Kelly O’s) is recognized as much for its iconic kilts, pachos and birthday meals as it is for its lake views. To enhance that experience, Plan B Contractors completed a major renovation that doubled the size of the old tiered patio, created a level space, and added a full-service wet bar. Designed to blend heritage character with modern amenities, the space features exposed heavy timbers, fir plank ceilings, steel columns, and reclaimed brickwork from the original building (the historic Royal Bank built in 1911). With retractable screens for year-round enjoyment and new kitchen coolers tucked beneath the patio, this renovation redefined the restaurant’s outdoor appeal without compromising its undeniable charm.
Key Project Details
Why the Project was Needed:
The original patio at Kelly O’Bryan’s had reached its capacity and no longer met the growing demand for outdoor dining with a lake view. The client wanted to expand the space, add a covered bar, and upgrade infrastructure—all while preserving the building’s heritage appeal. The renovation increased seating and kitchen efficiency (via added coolers) and improved the dining experience with a flattened layout and integrated drainage systems. One of the biggest challenges was the relocation and integration of a new power transformer to support the electrical needs of the expanded space. Plan B coordinated closely with FortisBC to ensure this was executed seamlessly, installed on-site, and done with minimal disruption to service.
The Project Team:
Plan B led the renovation with support from local trades. They carefully integrated new structural elements with the original building, reinforcing old concrete walls to support the expansion. High-impact design details like open timber framing, oak cladding, and modern steel supports were combined to give the space a refreshed yet familiar look. The project required thoughtful sequencing and logistical coordination, particularly around service continuity and public access in a busy downtown setting.
Project Highlights:
- Patio size doubled, complete with a covered, full-service wet bar and retractable screens.
- Mix of reclaimed materials, including original brickwork and exposed heavy timber.
- Seamless blend of old and new, preserving the heritage charm of a downtown Kelowna landmark.
- Structural reinforcement using existing concrete walls to support the new patio.
- Complex power transformer relocation in collaboration with FortisBC to meet expanded energy needs.
- New cooler systems to support increased kitchen demand.