Peyton Design Client Story

Standout Space: A Bite of Brazil

Winner: MASI Gold Award, 2021, Retail

Pure Captivating Joy: A Refreshingly Bright, Optimistic Coffee Shop

It all started at Edmonton Farmer’s Markets where owners Susana Simon and Beatriz Uzbeda shared their love of Brazilian street food and distinctive coffees. After building a loyal following, they envisioned a bricks-and-mortar experience of their native culture and hospitality. So we helped them capture the fresh, bright, sunniness of Brazil in a coffee shop that has won the hearts of the community.

“We hear amazing comments from our customers all the time. People think the store is very beautiful, harmonious and bright. One day [a lady] stopped by for a pick-me-up since she was feeling very nervous and missing her family in Brazil. After spending some time in our store, she told us how much she loved it, and how comforted and calmed she felt. We are so happy that our space makes everyone feel welcome.”

- BEATRIZ UZBEDA

Authentic & Aligned Design

Our clients dreamed of building a coffee shop that was distinct from any other in the city. Through careful layering of dynamic elements – light fixtures selected for their resemblance to the Brazilian flag, botanical wallcovering representative of the rainforest, metal canopy inspired by both city life and soaring trees – we filled the cafe with energy while maintaining cohesion.

Before we came in, the company had very little brand identity so we knew the interior space would set the tone for the entire customer experience. The colours and shapes of the custom wallcovering have become key elements of the company’s brand, and their social media images are instantly recognizable. The interior palette has informed decisions about uniforms, dishware and packaging, and other marketing efforts.

Our People-First Approach In Action

Since it opened, A Bite of Brazil has become a rallying point for Brazilian expats in Edmonton. The familiarity and warmth of the space not only reminds them of home, but represents their culture to Canadians. Customer reviews consistently comment on the warmth of both the space and the service, and we are excited that our interior acts as a perfect extension to the personalities and values of its owners.

People-First Decisions

The space plan uses every available inch of floor area, including a comfortable separation between seating and customer line-up/waiting area for the best customer experience. We were intentional about potential bottlenecks in the space, and detailed the condiments station to incorporate storage, service items, trash/recycling and dish drop-off with maximum efficiency.
The coffee shop features the diversity of Brazil, while creating a welcoming atmosphere. The space needed to feel approachable to those who weren’t already familiar with Brazilian cuisine and culture, and like a warm hug to those who were.

“RUN, don’t walk to A Bite of Brazil, a much needed addition to 104 Street!! One of the most friendly cafes in Edmonton, never mind the quality of the Brazilian treats and outstanding coffee. The design of the space, the natural light, and the warmth of the wood furnishings create a great vibe for coffee at any time of the day.”

- A BITE OF BRAZIL CUSTOMER, 2020

Thoughtfully Designed: The Bold Gesture

It doesn’t get much more bold than a colourful botanical wallcovering inspired by the vibrant rainforests of Brazil. This feature served several purposes: it established the colour palette, reinforced the “jungle” element of the story, balanced the slim proportions of the space, and created a visual beacon to grab attention from the street.

To keep it appropriately scaled for the small space, we balanced it with contemporary shapes and neutral finishes.

ThE EXPERIENCE MATTERS

Susana and Beatriz were busy entrepreneurs with a lot on their plate. On top of participating in the design process, they were also resolving operational questions, navigating health and safety requirements, and making a significant financial investment. Having Peyton Interior Design on board to conceive of the space – as well as coordinate engineers, direct the contractor, and facilitate orders for furnishings and accessories – left them with additional time and energy to focus on the other aspects of opening a new business.

“After so many years of planning, this was a unique moment and opportunity in our lives…Kerri’s team did a really good job of bringing together many different ideas. They had the sensibility to listen, understand our culture, translate it into a design and then make it happen. The store is friendly, bright, colourful and fun. There are so many elements that are so beautiful – from the wallpaper and the shelves, the round window in the door, to the benches and the chairs, it just feels so harmonious.” - SUSANA SIMON