Ground Cafe at Yale University

University Cafe

The new 'Ground' cafe, located in the Marcel Breuer-designed Becton Center at Yale University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), serves as a social hub for faculty and students of the engineering school, while also encouraging interaction between members of other departments in the university. Bentel and Bentel Architects/Planners transformed the former seminar room into a unique space by layering walnut planks, perforated aluminum, and cleft bluestone over the concrete surfaces. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also pays homage to Breuer's exploration of textures using a single material.

What sets the 'Ground' cafe apart is its ability to foster collaboration and connections between different disciplines within the Yale community. Situated between Yale's central campus and its science-oriented 'Science Hill' campus, the cafe acts as a meeting point for engineers, scientists, artists, and humanists. To further support creative collaborations, the design incorporates a state-of-the-art LED 'digital canvas' called LuxED. This 23,000 diode screen can be used by any member of the Yale community for scientific or creative work. By wrapping the LuxED across a wall and ceiling of the cafe, it becomes a visible feature to passersby, highlighting the Engineering school as a new cultural center on Yale's campus.

The 'Ground' cafe not only offers a space for socializing and enjoying coffee and pastries but also serves as a platform for interdisciplinary collaborations. The design by Bentel and Bentel Architects/Planners successfully transforms a former seminar room into a vibrant and innovative environment that encourages interaction and creativity among the Yale community.

Image Credits: All Photos by Eduard Hueber, Archphoto

Awards and Accolades: The design of the 'Ground' cafe was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2014 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding expertise and innovation demonstrated by the design. The 'Ground' cafe stands out for its technical characteristics, artistic skill, and ability to evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.