Grey Fox Coffee - Studio M Architects

Grey Fox Coffee and Wine Bar Design in TCF Tower, Minneapolis

Overview:

Grey Fox Coffee and Wine Bar is a dual-concept establishment located in the TCF Tower in downtown Minneapolis. Studio M Architects was commissioned to create a space that functions as a bright, inviting coffee bar during the day and transforms into an intimate wine bar in the evening. The design embraces a black-and-white theme, utilizing contrasting elements to craft two distinct atmospheres within the same venue.

Project Goals:

Develop a versatile space serving as a coffee bar by day and a wine bar by night.
Implement a design concept that visually represents the transition from morning to evening.
Use materials and colors to create contrasting yet harmonious environments.
Incorporate intimate seating areas within a large open courtyard space.
Enhance the customer experience with high-quality finishes and thoughtful design details.

Design and Implementation:

Layout and Features:
- Designed the coffee bar area with a white theme, featuring fresh and bright elements suitable for the morning crowd.
- Created the wine bar area with a black theme, establishing a dark and intimate ambiance for evening patrons.
- Addressed the challenge of the large open courtyard by introducing intimate seating areas alongside larger communal tables to accommodate various group sizes.
Materials and Finishes:
- Coffee Bar (Daytime):
  - Used white tiles to create a clean and bright environment.
  - Incorporated copper panels and accents for warmth and visual interest.
  - Installed marble countertops for a touch of luxury.
  - Added custom-cut routed panels to the coffee bar for unique detailing.
  - Featured copper ceilings to enhance the brightness and reflectivity of the space.
  - Selected marble tables with gold legs to provide elegant seating options.
- Wine Bar (Evening):
  - Employed dark finishes for walls, furniture, flooring, and the bar to create an intimate setting.
  - Used charred wood (shou sugi ban) with a chevron pattern to add texture and depth.
  - Chose copper seating and black lights with copper detailing to maintain sophistication.
  - Opted for black felt seating designed for comfort and a cozy atmosphere.
Key Elements:
- The contrasting black-and-white theme effectively transitions the space from day to night.
- The use of shou sugi ban adds a unique and traditional texture to the design.
- Copper accents serve as a unifying element between the two concepts.
- Intimate seating areas are strategically placed to cater to both individual patrons and large groups.

Challenges:

Spatial Configuration:
- Transforming a large open courtyard into functional zones that feel both expansive and intimate.
- Balancing the need for openness during the day with the desire for coziness in the evening.
Material Selection:
- Selecting materials that align with both the aesthetic goals and the functional demands of a dual-purpose space.
- Integrating high-end finishes like marble and copper while considering budget constraints.

Outcome:

Grey Fox Coffee and Wine Bar successfully achieves a seamless transition from a lively daytime coffee spot to an intimate evening wine bar. The thoughtful use of contrasting colors, textures, and materials creates two distinct yet cohesive environments within the same footprint. Patrons enjoy a bright, welcoming atmosphere in the morning and a warm, sophisticated setting at night. The design not only meets the client’s vision but also enhances the overall customer experience, making Grey Fox a standout destination in downtown Minneapolis.