THE PIT & THE PEEL - MAIN STREET

The Pit and the Peel is a local casual fare restaurant prominently situated at the corner of West Main Street and North Brunswick Street, is an adaptive reuse renovation and addition to a former print shop. The client purchased the building to extend their business’s roots and service capacity in the VCU area, replacing their flagship establishment in the same neighborhood. The new space plays a critical role in defining and showcasing the franchise's design and branding standards for future locations.

A stark contrast between the building’s dark exterior and bright interior is designed to entice and provoke curiosity in pedestrians and other passersby. The understated interior material palette serves as a backdrop for a varied assortment of hanging and potted interior plants. The addition of these verdant, organic accents brings life and freshness to the soft, warm tones of the new and existing construction. Preserved existing clerestory windows, in conjunction with new storefront and an operable garage door, allow abundant natural light to flow into the main space.

Above the storefront, the existing wood roof deck and roof joists were left exposed to maintain the natural character of the existing structure. A curving wood slat wall defines the dining space which is outfitted with custom banquettes, bar seating, planters, and flexible tables. The expansive rooftop deck is one of many defining and unique features of this restaurant. The capacity to support large outdoor gatherings is especially relevant now, given the increased demand for open-air communal spaces in the public realm. This portion of the project includes a covered bar, flexible tables, a performance stage, and lounge seating to accommodate a variety of party sizes. A perimeter of vibrant, cascading plants thoughtfully softens the threshold between the secluded elevated deck and the bustling city beyond.

Location: Richmond, VA
Date: 2020
Size: 3,750 SF