Case study,
WBC Warehouse Redesign
Setareh & Chloe
Structural: JY
Contractor: Matt Moore
View Final project here.
Human-centered
HOW WE STARTED!
At GarciaTamjidi we approached all projects with human-centered methodology. We found the key to successful innovations design in:
INTRO + CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
At GT, designers do a deep dive into research.
The process started with talking to our client, Wynn. We wanted to think of the design from his point of view. We had 3 one-on-one meetings with the investor and the owner to gather qualitative data to understand some of their key pain points, behaviors and goals they have in mind such as:
In addition to collected data, we realized brewing is a very precise and complicated process with a lot of moving parts. This included heavy barrel tanks, complicated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing details and many safety concerns. This project was a contemporary mix of large stainless steel brewing tanks, refrigeration areas, grain grinding zones, taproom and office spaces.
Current Platform
We visited the existing 5,500-square-foot facility that was chosen by our client to have a better sense of physical platform before jumping into any solution.
PROBLEM SPACE
After several site visits and talking to engineers in the team, we found out the conversion of an old, empty warehouse into a microbrewery presented several significant challenges:
1. The brewing process is intricate and requires precision, so as a designer, I had to thoroughly understand the complexities involved and gain insights from a brew master to ensure an optimal design.
2. Balancing the client's budget was a crucial aspect while devising a feasible and viable solution that meets the requirements of our firm and the microbrewery.
3. The transformation also involved navigating through uncertainties related to permitting, ensuring that the old warehouse was structurally safe for both business operations and customer safety.
Minimal Taproom
HOW MIGHT WE?
From secondary research, we developed our design challenge statement:
How can we improve and redesign an old warehouse so that we can create a functional microbrewery with minimal Japanese style taproom that is safe and in accordance with California Fire and Building code?
Sketching
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
After compiling the information collected, conduct a field survey, it was time to draft a couple of design option for clients to review. This is where we create a flow diagram. To help better visualize the finished product, we created sketches. The schematic design phase of design also included a rough cost estimate for each option we provide to help client make his choice keeping the budget in mind.
THINK AHEAD OF TIME!
Due to location of the warehouse, we started collaborating with a civil engineer to make sure the soil is not contaminated.
Also, we conduct a comprehensive review of the California Building Code to ensure that no further changes will be required during the permitting process in the future. Throughout the entire process, we have been mindful of accessibility, ensuring that the project is designed to be inclusive and accommodating for everyone.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
After discussing the initial design with the client, investor, and engineers, it was time to further develop the chosen design. Our main objective was to finalize the client-approved design and work on the general engineering details of the building before moving on to the material design (UI) phase.
During this phase, the Emeryville Fire Department brought to our attention a crucial concern regarding the Fire Escape route. They pointed out that there could be a potential conflict with our design. This revelation came as a shock because we had been continuously checking the building codes as we progressed.
The Fire Escape route, which should allow for unobstructed access to the outside at ground level through a door, stairway, or ramp, did not meet the city's requirements. This meant that if someone was at the farthest point of the building during a fire, they would have very little time to escape using the two exits we had provided. Moreover, one of our exits was located too far from that point.
In light of this new information, we needed to come up with new design or find a solution with selected design to ensure compliance with the safety regulations.
By rearranging rooms, adjusting the spatial layout, and collaborating with both the general contractor and engineers, we successfully devised a more compact exit that fulfills the necessary criteria. This decision led us to downsize the refrigerator room designated for storing and cooling barrels and squeeze another fridge to the floor plan.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
This project was a
UX Architecture: The warehouse lacked separation, necessitating the design of distinct areas for various functions. Ensuring compliance with fire codes while effectively segregating these spaces posed a considerable challenge.
MEP and Equipment Plans: One of the most formidable tasks in this project was devising the MEP and equipment layout for the main brewery and grain room. The intricate mechanical connections between the barrels and the grain room demanded careful planning and intelligent relocation of electrical and mechanical components, ensuring efficient operations and seamless processes within the microbrewery.
Ensuring Safe Egress: In accordance with California code requirements, the project required careful consideration and implementation of proper escape routes to ensure the safety and swift evacuation of occupants in case of emergencies.
Accessibility: The project had to meet strict ADA accessibility requirements, ensuring that the microbrewery was accessible and accommodating for individuals with disabilities.
Addressing these challenges demanded creative and thoughtful architectural solutions to transform the warehouse into a functional and compliant microbrewery.
Making the Space Pretty
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
This stage closely resembles the creation of a Design System in UX design.
We delve into the specifics of various elements such as finishes, materials, colors, lighting and plumbing fixtures, hardware, and ultimately, furniture. From the early stages, we aimed to avoid the appearance of a typical pub tasting room and instead draw inspiration from Japanese aesthetics when selecting materials.
During this design stage, numerous unforeseen expenses arose, including additional structural and civil work, which significantly constrained our budget compared to the project's initial stages. Despite these financial limitations, we were brimming with creative ideas. Consequently, we embarked on several rounds of research to pinpoint materials that aligned with our budget. This encompassed items such as tiles, concrete counters, light fixtures, door and window hardware, wood panels, as well as furniture for the bar and dining areas.
Our client actively participated in each step and expressed the desire to review and approve all finishes. To facilitate these design decisions visually, we also generated a 3D rendering of the space.
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THERE IS THE FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING
This was ours. 40 months later, we built a Microbrewery that serves premium
Learning & Improving
Key Takeaways
This project proved to be both highly challenging and brimming with invaluable learning opportunities. It encompassed diverse domains, ranging from delving into the intricacies of brewing beer to mastering technical engineering details. Despite our best efforts, numerous unforeseen hurdles emerged, prompting us to continually adapt and innovate.
Early in the project, I grasped the significance of prioritizing accessibility, a lesson that resonated throughout. Collaboration with engineers and contractors proved indispensable; their expertise was pivotal in overcoming the project's complexities.
Navigating these challenges necessitated ingenuity and considerate architectural solutions, effectively converting the warehouse into a compliant and operational microbrewery. The ultimate result was met with enthusiasm from our client, and the resounding positive feedback from patrons was truly remarkable. This venture also marked a two-way learning experience, as our client gleaned insights from us, while we embraced the opportunity to expand our scope by undertaking a project that deviated from our usual portfolio.