”the expo site in Shanghai was our opportunity to push the boundaries of a sustainable Starbucks in China.”

Expo Starbucks located in Shanghai was opened following the 2010 World Expo and within an area zoned for green buildings. The cafe targeted a LEED gold certification which it was awarded in 2015. The certification was the first for Starbucks China.

The design for the Expo cafe was simple in approach focusing on minimal built impact and elevating the beauty of the existing architecture. Less was more here and decisions were made to celebrate minimalism and focus on materiality and space. An important component to the store was the use of refurbished furniture from old stores that went through the reno cycle allowing for waste diversion. Even the wood floor and community tables were created using reclaimed and salvaged wood.

Role: Lead Designer

Area: 265 SQM.

Built 2014