The owners of Calista Super Foods had a clear vision for their business – to bring nourishing and quick cuisine to hungry, health-conscious Manhattanites. I worked with the enthusiastic and business-savvy owners on the design for their first two stores in New York City. The vision called for an upscale modern space with clean lines that was also warm and inviting. The design also had to evoke the Calista goals of health and wellbeing.

I focused the color palette on the natural world: deep brown, white, green, and pops of an autumnal orange for a bit of energy and fun. I also worked to integrate plants and greenery with a refined and elegant touch. These features made for a refreshing, revitalizing space that reflected the business’ focus on healthy living.

Another key element was the need for a design that could work in a variety of spaces and carry the brand through other store openings down the line. I achieved this with an emphasis on distinct materials and finishes that would easily become recognizable as the Calista brand.  Naturally, we also wanted to focus on using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. Bamboo plywood was used for the wall paneling and tabletops and the flooring is made of recycled materials. For the details I used over-scaled pendant lights as a focal point and topiary plants in shelf recesses. All of these features can be easily adapted and repeated to establish the brand aesthetic.

When the project was finished Calista Superfoods had two spaces that feel as good to be in as those superfoods are to eat.