Coffee, cabernet and community
The unique, large-format Starbucks retail location to be constructed at 20 Fairchild St. and opened to the public this coming October is beginning to take shape, as evidenced by a recent rendering depicting the dual-use facility released by developer Mike White. The 3-D image depicts the uniquely styled Starbucks location and its symbiotic neighbor, the adjoining boutique wine shop Bin 526.
The most exciting feature, at least in the eyes of the developer himself, is the massive Southern-style, wrap-around patio that will affront both businesses. For White, the aesthetic of the design reflects the products to be offered at each retail location. The 3,000 square foot outdoor patio is ideal for a facility that will feature predominantly coffee and wine, he said.
“Coffee and wine experiences should never be rushed,” added White, in a press release accompanying the color rendering released last week. “Rather, both passions are enjoyed most when shared in a relaxed setting amongst close friends and new acquaintances. There is something so magical about the transfer between nature and man, from location, climate, soil, harvest to grape, grape to glass – it brings on a joy that transcends the centuries since man first harvested coffee beans and wine grapes.”
In addition to the massive outdoor patio, the new Starbucks location will feature a number of unique design elements, including European-style setbacks from the street, an interior that is environmentally-friendly and full of natural light, and an impressive 36-foot façade. The location will utilize a 12-car drive-through lane, and as such, will dominate the western side of the building.
And of all the charms of the new coffee shop, White is perhaps even more excited about the opening of Bin 526, a personal project he’s taken ownership of, literally.
“Style, distinction, warmth and intimacy will be the hallmarks of Bin 526’s architecture and interior design, enabling our store to attract a niche of customers looking for a special and differentiated experience to fulfill their individual needs,” said White of the wine shop.
The building design will be appearing at the City of Charleston’s Design and Review Board for review in the coming weeks, and barring no unforeseen delays, construction will begin this summer. With luck, macchiatos, mochas, and merlots from Bordeaux will be available at 20 Fairchild by this coming Halloween.