Nestled in the heart of the rapidly evolving South End neighborhood, the Salty Charlotte emerges as the seventh gem in the crown of a burgeoning boutique coffee and donut shop. It finds its home on the ground floor of an active mixed-use office building, where design and purpose seamlessly converge to craft an unparalleled sensory experience. Every detail has been meticulously curated to engage the pedestrian, drawing them into a world where placemaking and functionality harmonize.
The Salty Charlotte’s architectural narrative is a love letter to the South End neighborhood and the culture it embodies. It’s a dynamic intersection of design and functionality, an embrace of growth and transformation. This haven of subtly stained red oak, natural soapstone, patterned ceramics, and sweeping arches invites patrons to embark on a journey where every curve, every material, and every detail tells a story. In the heart of South End, the Salty Charlotte isn’t just a coffee and donut shop – it’s a testament to the enduring allure of design, community, and the simple joys of indulgence.
The store finds itself in the quickly developing South End neighborhood of Charlotte at the ground floor of a large mixed use office building. The design is centered around engagement with the pedestrian experience, taking full advantage of the corner and expansive storefront.
The programmatic areas were first defined through soft forms creating a separation between kitchen and counter, queuing, and dining, public and private.
These areas reach to the exposed deck before being gently carved with sweeping curves and arches to give a home for millwork and curate perspectives.
The subtly stained red oak, natural soapstone, patterned ceramics, and sinuous walls truly come to life when introduced to the storefront. Taking on a golden richness drenched by the sun the space evokes the sentiment of a boutique hotel lobby – cozy and inviting while remaining spacious. The exterior complements the neighboring buildings and creates a welcoming, home-y feeling.
The walls are painted in warm, inviting tones, and large windows allow natural light to fill the space.
The donut counter is a focal point of the interior, with a variety of delicious donuts displayed on sleek racks.
The ceiling of the building is high, giving the space a sense of openness and airiness. The warm lighting fixtures are placed strategically to highlight the delicious treats on display while creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The fixtures are designed to be both functional and decorative, serving as both a sign to attract customers and as a source of ambient lighting in the space. The frames are polished brass finished with playful signage text that features built-in LED lights that provide a warm and inviting glow.
The space is designed to be flexible, with simple, functional furniture that can be easily rearranged to accommodate different group sizes.