Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
A white box and construction lights—for Blueprint Coffee co-owners Kevin Reddy and Mike Marquard, the minimal space was perfect. The two collaborated with Reddy’s architect brother, Brian, to create a contemporary design inspired by the building. “We wanted to use very authentic materials to give the white box some bones and to support our very technical equipment,” Kevin says.
Following a Bauhaus aesthetic and the mantra “function over form,” the trio made use of industrial concrete and wood. Customers now sip lattes while sitting on tall metal stools placed around long wooden counters. A blue stretch of wall and metal tables add splotches of color. The result is uncluttered and inviting.
“We wanted a space that encouraged conversation,” Kevin says. “We went so far as to forgo menu boards, lower counters, and customize the bakery case. We want the customer to have to speak to us and make a choice, and be aware of the choice.”
The result: a space that’s efficient, engaging—and quirky. Baristas hand beakers of coffee to customers, and oversize Scrabble pieces in the window declare the Delmar Loop’s newest coffee shop “OPEN.”
