The Ultimate Sandwich

To cater to a new cafe concept for Boots The Chemist, a Birmingham, England retail outfit, London-based John Herbert Partnership (JHP) cooked up a simple, contemporary design. The cafe, “The Ultimate Sandwich,” is literally “sandwiched” between other store elements, and offers premium fast food at a minimum price.

The cafe's design features ivory-white walls and columns that contrast subtly with the pure white of the retail outfit. The reconstituted floor establishes a sense of quality and supports the natural palette of colors, while frameless, etched-glass screens define the seating area and offer varying degrees of privacy from walkways.

The order counter combines textured stainless-steel framing with maple countertops, and a window behind the counter allows customers to see into the kitchen, exposing food preparation and reinforcing the fresh-food concept. Throughout the cafe, large-scale digital images communicate notions of texture and flavor. Additionally, bent plywood chairs and round tables with maple and chrome frames compliment the light, modern environment.

Design: John Herbert Partnership, London

Photography: Courtesy of John Herbert Partnership