Designing the Coffee Shop

This study explored the physical and social characteristics that encourage gathering behavior in coffee shops. The study is primarily qualitative using the techniques of visual documentation, observation, behavioral mapping, interview, and survey research. The findings are presented in four categories including preferred physical attributes of the coffee shops, characteristics of the people who frequent the coffee shops, the activities that took place there, and the feelings and attitudes of the patrons. The most important physical characteristics include cleanliness, appealing aroma, adequate lighting, comfortable furniture, and a view to the outside. Regarding the people and their activities, feelings, and attitudes, findings showed people valued the opportunity to linger, interact with regular patrons and staff. Patrons enjoyed the social environment of the coffee shop, and the support that was afforded them by other patrons and staff. The coffee shop became a home away from home for many. Overall, a strong sense of place attachment existed for those who frequented the coffee shop.

Lisa K. Waxman, Ph.D. is an associate professor in the Department of Interior Design at Florida State University. Her research interests include environment and behavior, specifically issues of place making. She is an NCIDQ qualified interior design, a licensed interior design in Florida, a member of IIDA, EDRA, and a Fellow of IDEC.