Name: Matchstick Coffee
Location: Vancouver, BC

Matchstick, located in Vancouver, is a great example of a well thought through concept on a small budget.

Matchstick's branding and logo evoke the warmth and playfulness of their owners while also drawing connection to the handcrafted quality of their product.

Matchstick did a great job understanding their concept and core identity and portraying it to the public through their use of simple, raw materials and clean color palate.

The minimalism created inside of the space not only helps with small budgets, but also keeps the interior unfussy and uncluttered. This direction thoughtfulness of objects and space speaks to the owners clear vision of their brand and product.

The large, live edge community table is one of the largest visual components of the space (other than the long service bar on the opposite wall) and emphasizes Matchsticks desire to be a community gathering space. This long table can transform to meet multiple needs through the day in a variety of situations and brings people together.

Large groupings of the same artists work create a much bigger visual effect than their initial cost.

Image 1© Scout Magazine Flickr

Images 2,3 © Matchstick Facebook

Image 4 © Raul P Flickr

Image 5-7 © Cleanhotdry

Name: Scarpetta Dining Pavilion
Location: Toronto, Canada
Design: gh3, II by IV Design

New York based restaurant, Scarpetta, recently completed it's first international expansion into the city of Toronto. Wishing to create a new dining concept where guests can 'see and be seen', the dining pavilion surely accomplishes it's directives.

New York based restaurant, Scarpetta, recently completed it's first international expansion into the city of Toronto. Wishing to create a new dining concept where guests can 'see and be seen', the dining pavilion surely accomplishes it's directives.

Set alongside a park and parallel to a linear reflecting pool, the angular and narrow pergola has one central community table dominating the space.

The long table was designed to include seating ranging from standard dining, counter, and bar height spots by raising or lowering the Corian surface.

The reflective nature of the inside finishes brings the natural qualities found outside, inside and allows a harmonious space throughout. Placing the bar stations perpendicular to the direction of the space, creates a natural break and defines the spaces boundaries.