Cafe Ava

Providence, RI 3,230 sq. ft.

• At the corner of Hospital and South Street, Cafe Ava stands as a masterclass in versatile urban hospitality. Our design for this 94-seat venue breaks away from the traditional coffee shop model, introducing a "social-first" layout that transitions effortlessly from a focused morning workspace to a sophisticated evening lounge. By integrating private phone booths and a professional office suite alongside a high-energy double-bar core, we’ve created a multi-layered environment where Providence’s professional and social lives intersect seamlessly.

  A Collaborative Transformation from Office to Lounge 

  The metamorphosis of the building required more than just an aesthetic refresh; it demanded a total programmatic shift. Acting as the Architect of Record for the project, we reviewed and coordinated the permit drawing progress produced by PDS to ensure the 3,230-square-foot office-to-restaurant conversion met every stringent Providence building and safety code.

  The design intervention focused on high-utility "Social Zones":

  • Dual-Service Bar Architecture: The space is anchored by two distinct bars – a primary 182 SF service hub and a secondary 70 SF bar – allowing the venue to flex between coffee service and evening cocktail hospitality.

  • Hybrid Utility: To support the modern "work-from-cafe" culture, the floor plan integrates specific professional amenities, including two private phone booths and a dedicated 10'x8' office, strategically separated from the main lounge areas.

  • Architect of Record Oversight: GDS led the final coordination for permit submission, ensuring that the 94-seat occupant load was supported by optimized egress paths and a meticulously planned full-service kitchen core.

  • Structural Preservation: The project maximized the existing urban shell, introducing a comprehensive new MEP/FP program to support the restaurant conversion while respecting the building's original exterior and structural walls.

  The final result is a fluid, multi-purpose environment that bridges the gap between a high-end workplace and a neighborhood social landmark.

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