FONVILLE PRESS

Alys Beach, FL 2023

Project Total Square Footage:

3,882’/sq Heated & Cooled

Against the backdrop of white stucco walls and roofs comes a splash of color at this neighborhood market, which brings multiple experiences to a small singular space. This local market, which also serves as a café and bar, is a one-stop shop for the community’s needs. The project is the initial build-out for the ground floor level of this condominium building, originally designed to house up to three separate units. This presented a challenge, requiring unity in the interior while addressing different exit conditions.

The first decision was to use the various market functions to define distinct sections within the market while maintaining an open feel. This approach allowed the utilization of exterior glazing to provide ample natural light into the space. The main entrance, facing the street and green, serves the dry goods and grab-and-go portion of the market. The central section functions as the interior bar, facing south and sharing a window with the exterior bar and courtyard. Adjacent to the bar is the primary POS and deli area. The third section, terminating the view from the entry, is the seating area with freestanding tables and built-in bench seating along the end wall, lined with bookcases and displays.

A major component driving the layout was the outside dining area, anchored by the central bar which serves both interior and exterior spaces. This design choice establishes a strong presence along 30A, providing color through fabric shades and colorful seating set against the white backdrop. The bar connection was essential to activate the space, studied both as an additive element and in its final form, with the bar separated from the interior by awning-style windows. Maintaining transparency was key to preserving the open and bright feel, which placed constraints on the type of display and functional storage available around the bar.

The design team successfully balanced the significant functional demands of the space with the overall aesthetic that the client desired. The result is a vibrant, multifunctional market that enhances the community experience, blending seamlessly into its elegant surroundings while adding a dynamic and colorful touch.

Photos by Katie Desantis