ELEMENTARY COFFEE CO. RECOGNIZED WITH PRESERVATION AWARD

“They literally saved a building that would have not survived without this restoration.”

Historic Harrisburg Association’s (HHA) David Morrison recently spoke with The Burg magazine about the decision to award Elementary Coffee Co. a 2020 Preservation Award, saying it came down to the quality and extent of the restoration, the impact on the surrounding neighborhood, and the degree to which demolition or loss was prevented or history was preserved.

The collaboration between building owner Matt Krupp, CDA, and Elementary Coffee Co.’s founder Andrea Grove has completely transformed the once dilapidated structure at 254 and 256 North Street into an inviting space that captures the very essence of Elementary’s shop culture and brand.

“Our future as a company would not have been possible without the help from Chris Dawson Architect,” Andrea said of her experience working with CDA. “They managed to gather the abstract ideas we had in our minds, combine these ideas with their own, and create a shop space that perfectly balances aesthetic beauty with efficient functionality.”

In its use of walnut and dark countertops with simple details, the design roots itself in the tone of the Broad Street Market stand, where Elementary got its start. Connecting the coffee shop to the street is a large new storefront window and sidewalk seating. Inside, a lounge area offers additional seating for those that want to linger in the shop. The bright white paint not only helps balance the use of natural wood, cork, and stone materials, but works to make the space feel bigger and brighter.

CDA worked with Andrea to consider multiple locations before she settled on the building on North Street. We are proud to have helped realize this important project for Elementary and the City of Harrisburg.