Located in the middle of the Saint Viator High School, an underutilized commons area became a prime candidate to evolve into a thriving destination for both students and faculty. The key concept was to create a space with a concessions component that promoted healthy choices; a welcoming environment that would give students a comfortable space to collaborate and relax outside of their standard classroom times; and a location that acted as a natural extension to the event activities for all community members to utilize.
Re-Branded as “Burks’ Place”, this new cafe has reinvigorated the heart of the school. Before, during, or after school, students can purchase a number of nutritional foods and drinks. Burks’ Place’s thoughtful approach to its central positioning helped provide the greatest opportunity for all students to have access for various types of activities such as study sessions, group meetings, or even mental breaks throughout the day.
When designing the space, our team took inspiration of the classic aesthetic a coffee shop, using face brick, wood floors, and timber structural elements to contrast the typical corridors flanking the space. By doing so, the procession to this area from either direction acted as a beacon to invite students to something new and exciting. A similar design element was also implemented in the main entrance to bring cohesion to the overall interiors of the school.
Now, a once simple space which acted as a simple pass-thru for students has transformed into a lively, enticing destination.
