Arthur’s:
A Milkbar Reimagined
Arthur’s is a neighbourhood diner opened by Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli and partner Neila Brenning. Inspired by the diners of Brenning’s Canadian childhood and the building’s past life as a local milk bar run by Arthur and Frida Kakousis, the space blends heritage and nostalgia with a modern sense of comfort.
CREATIVE DIRECTION / BRAND IDENTITY / MERCHANDISING
Client
Arthur’s Milkbar
About
Arthur’s was created by Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli and partner Neila Brenning. The space was designed by Studio Esteta, with branding by me, blending the warmth of a heritage milk bar with the charm of North American diners to create a modern neighbourhood classic.
When Marcus approached me, the brand was already in motion but lacked the heart he envisioned. He wanted something more lived in, more Americana, something that felt like the badges, coasters and roadside signs you’d find in old diners. A brand that felt playful yet timeless, rooted in the Windsor community.
I refined the original logo, created a custom font kit, and introduced script lettering that captured the spirit of a classic diner. A mascot representing Arthur himself became the brand’s storyteller, linking past and present in a way that honours the building’s heritage while inviting a new generation inside.
