Food Kids
Client
Food Kids
Location
Austin, Texas
Awards
South Central Chapter of ASID Ovation Award, South Central Chapter of ASID Gold Award, IIDA Award of Recognition
Services
Interior Design, Branding Development, Furniture, Wayfinding and Signage, Retail Merchandising
CDI Solutions completed a unique retail project for Foodie Kids that combines nostalgic charm with modern functionality. This small 1,700-square-foot retail space showcases our expertise in creating inviting and memorable environments that appeal to all ages. Designed to reflect the charm of a 1930s general store while delivering a contemporary shopping experience, the project seamlessly balances aesthetic appeal with practical retail functionality.
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The entrance to Foodie Kids sets the tone for the entire store. A traditional beadboard wainscot adds a classic touch while serving as a durable surface for additional display hooks, enhancing merchandising potential. Vibrant colors energize the space and create an inviting atmosphere, perfectly complementing the playful spirit of the store’s offerings.
Inside, customers are welcomed by stained pinewood plank floors and tin ceiling tiles, which frame the retail displays. Inspired by 1930s general store cabinets, these displays feature framed marker boards for product categories, combining a nostalgic aesthetic with modern organization. A standout design element is the red divided-light farm door, adding a rustic charm and drawing customers further into the space, hinting at the excitement beyond.
The heart of the store is "The Makery," a playful, hands-on space where children can create treats like mini pizzas, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls under the guidance of instructors. Designed with vintage soda parlor inspiration, The Makery includes a front counter set at a lower height for children, with step stools for easy access. The back prep counter, set at standard height, efficiently stores all the necessary items for the culinary experience. The front cabinet, trimmed in vintage green beadboard, contrasts beautifully with the barn-red back counter, enhancing the vibrant and whimsical environment. This area is also set up for private parties, featuring a high beadboard backsplash and a mirror with vintage-inspired lettering, further defining the space.
Clear containers display various confectionery items throughout both The Makery and the retail area, ensuring they are easily identifiable and accessible to customers. Pinewood shelving, set on vintage-style cast iron brackets, visually connects The Makery with the retail area, maintaining the desired nostalgic theme. The adjacencies between the two spaces were strategically designed to promote cross-selling, encouraging exploration of the entire store and enhancing the customer experience.
Beyond The Makery, a larger kitchen and party room provide young chefs the opportunity to participate in private cooking parties and summer camps. This fully functional kitchen space is thoughtfully designed with durable, cleanable materials that reflect the essence of a vintage kitchen. The central kitchen island serves as a prep counter, and the room’s playful design is inspired by a decorated cupcake featuring blue vinyl wall coverings for the "wrapper" and a lace-inspired chair rail with pink pegs for hanging aprons and party favors. Millwork resembling icing and vinyl wall-mounted candles complete this imaginative space, creating a whimsical environment for young chefs to enjoy.
The success of Foodie Kids lies in more than just the design—it’s in the lasting memories the space creates for children as they learn the joy of cooking. This passion for fostering a love of food in children is central to the owner's vision and is brought to life through CDI Solutions' thoughtful and creative design. By blending nostalgic elements with modern needs, we have crafted a functional and charming space. CDI Solutions is proud to have delivered a project that delights customers, supports the business, and stands out in the retail landscape.