Atlanta’s Square Feet Studio overhauls Beltline-adjacent architecture office

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Known for popular restaurant interiors—and the contentious new Memorial Drive project—the firm embraced former warehouse’s quirks, location

By Michael Kahn Jun 5, 2017, 10:10am EDT

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Bookshelves form desks and two couches create a seating area along the Beltline. — The central work areas in the new space.

Many of Atlanta’s hottest restaurants have something in common: Their interior spaces were designed by the team at Square Feet Studio.

The architecture firm—predominantly known for interiors at places like Kimball House, Saltyard, and Staplehouse—recently gained press for their innovative proposal at 350 Memorial Drive, which has been met with resistance by neighborhood groups.

Located across the Beltline’s Eastside Trail from Ladybird Grove & Mess Haul, the firm—headed by John and Vivian Bencich—recently expanded their studio space to accommodate a growing workload. And the new space, like the restaurant interiors, embraces the unique quirks of its context.

New desk spaces, formed from bookshelves, float free within the large volume of the old warehouse, defined by a large black wall within the otherwise bright white space.

Around the edge of the space, private offices sit behind pin-up boards, while at the side of the office closest to the Beltline, large couches form a seating area for meetings and relaxation.

With a patio adjacent to the Beltline, spaces for relaxing, and proximity to great restaurants and bars, it’s a wonder things get done in the office!