The renovations to the Edenwald Café (Towson, Md.), which used to be an institutional-style cafeteria, brought out the space’s original architectural details. The renovations incorporate the design aesthetic of an urban farmer’s market by utilizing rustic and reclaimed, natural-looking materials. Worn brick tile graces the entry and grill hood. The floors combine rustic wood-look tile with old world tile medallions. The renovated café food service area features suspended focal-point resin panels forming a circle, uniting the whole café below a two-story-high atrium area with bold red and cream light fixtures that echo a cooking flame.

Replacing a former coffee/snack cart, the coffee shop serving counter simulates reclaimed wooden planks. The new coffee shop, which offers grab-and-go food items along with Starbucks-branded coffee drinks, has become a popular gathering space. Before the renovations, the former dining area with unique windows and high ceilings didn’t emphasize these features. The renovated dining area takes full advantage of natural light and outdoor connections while highlighting unique round windows with complementary chandeliers that bring attention up to the second story and balcony dining area. Working within the existing space, the renovated café features a variety of seating options (including outdoor dining) as well as scatter-style food stations.

Cost per square foot: $358

Photography: Nathan Cox Photography (after images)