Situated in a large niche in the lobby of the Fifth Third Bank Tower in downtown Charlotte, this newest outpost of local favorite Dilworth Coffee is an attraction for the many folks who pass by on their way to work. We combined two former tenant spaces which were previously closed off from the lobby to create a seamless flow from the main entry points of the building, through the coffee shop, and into the elevator vestibule, thus capitalizing on people’s daily traffic patterns.

Building upon the lobby architecture and finish palette, we pulled in geometric patterns inspired by the existing floor and its graphic, polished stone border. Anchoring the coffee shop is a generous u-shaped central bar flanked by seating areas and highlighted by a perimeter of sculptural pendants. The bar gestures towards the lobby, luring customers in with an angled front. We broke down its mass and added texture and detail with painted dowels that wrap the soffit throughout the space and a thickly coffered walnut under bar.

White quartz countertops allow for ample work and display areas for baristas. Existing concrete floors were ground and polished and tie into the lobby’s floors for a seamless transition. Built-in menu boards, cork walls, custom walnut casework and tables, and brass trim complete the detail package. We also designed complementary walnut lockers along an adjacent corridor for the building’s laundry service.

Design: Square Feet Studio
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee