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Tree of Life - 6th & Main Street
Local restaurant Cocha was determined to extend its vibrant menu and energy onto the streets of downtown Baton Rouge. Faced with limited storefront real estate and a lackluster blank wall visible from inside the restaurant, creativity was essential.
Working alongside passionate business owners made this project both enjoyable and inspiring. Through several meetings and site visits, we developed a comprehensive master plan that not only enhanced their space but also effectively communicated their vision to the city. This included a significant outdoor art installation, additional outdoor seating, and branded elements. Cocha now proudly asserts that their dedication and message resonate throughout the urban landscape.
The Challenges:
Outdoor dining opportunities along street fronts are scarce in Baton Rouge, LA, making this the city's second parklet. Upon obtaining the necessary permits, UCS successfully constructed a 480-square-foot raised stone deck along 6th street. The parklet seamlessly integrated stone pavers to blend the existing sidewalk with the new deck, while Corten steel planters were strategically placed along the perimeter to maintain continuity with the interior aesthetic.
Incorporating local herbs and flowers, we adorned the planters to soften the typically harsh concrete edges found in urban centers, creating a harmonious transition with the adjacent mural. This initiative aimed to blend nature and art along the bustling main street corridor, enhancing the overall ambiance and appeal of the area.
DESIGN CONCEPT
At Cocha, the owners aimed to transform their space into a visual celebration of their deep reverence for nature and the seasonal inspirations behind their ever-evolving menu. Adopting an inside-out approach, we immersed ourselves in the customer's perspective, envisioning their dining experience from within. This exploration unveiled an exciting opportunity to extend the narrow street's ambiance by ingeniously employing shadows to evoke a profound sense of depth and ongoing exploration.
THE INSTALLATION
Once the entire wall had a new base coat, it was time to add a touch of nature and life to the space. Working through late and cold nights, the space began to take shape and offer a sense of life in an otherwise cold and concrete corner. From the rotating season found on the Tree of Life to small native animals that flock to it's energy, we were able to bring the client's vision to life and transform an otherwise overlooked space.
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