A.R.E. Awards – Specialty Food Retailer – Grand Prize

This Italian imported food emporium provides a modern approach to gourmet food shopping. Clean architectural lines and sophisticated materials guide the design approach, as does the concept of “Food as Fashion.” The textures, colors, and beauty of the food are the center of attraction in this space, with a fashion look expressed through the type of highly reflective surfaces found in high-end retailers. Unlike tradition grocers, the check-out area emulates a hotel concierge desk with marble slab desks, while the untraditional flooring consists of 24-by-24-inch mini-crystal white tile. A valet parking booth lets customers know they have arrived at an exclusive shopping destination.

Designed by GH+A