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Iconic coffee shop, Peet’s Coffee, began partnering with Chipman Design Architecture in 2018 when they were looking to remodel existing locations. This partnership expanded into prototype design and management, growing even further into the development of a new store and drive-thru program. CDA was most recently involved in designing Peet’s second drive-thru location in Hercules, CA.
Adding a drive-thru to their existing retail coffee shop model had to be approached with care and consideration for the whole store experience on both sides of the espresso machine. To start, it was imperative to incorporate new and upgraded equipment, improve the Mobile Order Ahead experience, and integrate efficiencies and lessons learned from the first location.
Many of the design choices were centered around creating solutions for dedicated Mobile Order Ahead pickup and staging. Planning to support the operational needs of a drive-thru and new menu items included adding new equipment as well as designing and coordinating a complex underground system to connect state of the art nitro cold brew coffee equipment in the back of house, to the taps built into the front bar.
Staying true to the Peet’s aesthetic, chosen materials feature a unique blend of mid-century modern and industrial elements. Dark walnut wainscoting and fixtures are juxtaposed with bright, luxurious marble counters and wall tile. Modern terrazzo-look floor tile is paired with splashes of vibrant wall covering, and tile patterns contrast the industrial black metal fixture accents, exposed structure, and ductwork –– which create the inviting, yet upscale experience customers expect from a Peet’s Coffee.
The new drive-thru has been a success and is particularly suited to customer expectations that are evolving amidst the pandemic. As one Yelp review stated, “Finally...Hercules has a Peet's Coffee and it has a Drive Thru.”
