I’m sitting in the booth of one of my favorite coffee shops as I write this, contemplating the effect that this particular interior has on my mood and writing, and I realize that it spans far beyond how I am feeling. The atmosphere established within a coffee house can not only have a profound effect on the customers it attracts but also on who it attracts as customers. Think about your favorite coffee shop and then ask yourself not what, but who do you see?
I love and appreciate a beautifully designed coffee shop as I love and appreciate all well-designed spaces. New shops are able to design the space better, and they often pay special attention to matching details, color coordination, and setting a specific mood. Take for example the coffee shop from which I write this blog. Neutral shades with a pop of red on an accent wall with evenly placed artwork. There are beautiful natural elements, a divider wall between the main seating area and the milk and condiments section – everything about this space has been well considered. It’s relaxing and pretty, yet vibrant thanks to all the people inside. And when I look around, the majority of the people here are a bit (or a lot) older than me. This place attracts families, friends and a somewhat sophisticated crowd. The people here look as if they belong as part of the space, although the space is likely what influence the people to come here.
On the other hand, another favorite shop of mine is downright grungy. I love it for all it’s cramped eccentricities. Loud music blares from inside the long and narrow space and tables are shoved in wherever they will fit. The lighting is dim except when you find a spot near the window where the majority of the few chairs and tables are collectively jumbled. Nothing matches, much like the artwork that hangs haphazardly wherever there is space. But I love it. You won’t find the same people here, either. The majority of the crowd are young, possibly students, most with alternative style. The place is hip and cool because of its space which attracts this young alternative crowd. It’s just as good as the other coffee shop, but it attracts such a different crowd, and the space combined with the people creates such a different atmosphere. It’s not the greatest for working (what with the blaring music,) but it’s a great place to be inspired.
Local coffee shops seem to be different. Often, my favorite places are a combination between the two listed above because there is a wonderful mixture of styles as well as people. Next time you go into your favorite cafe, look around and see if you feel as though you “fit” the space.