Seattle-based Organic To Go mandated a fresh, clean, comfortable and natural environment when it took over four High Noon restaurants in the Washington, D.C., area. “Founder Jason Brown wanted a total transformation,” says Herb Heiserman, group principal with the design firm The Heiserman Group.
After gutting the interiors, The Heiserman Group outfitted the units with eco-conscious materials. Sustainable bamboo shows up in the tables, millwork, wall paneling, fixtures and counter wraps. Natural stone and rattan rugs add elemental textures. Organic To Go boasts that every plate, bag and food container that the company uses is either biodegradable, compostable or recyclable.
Fortunately, says Heiserman, premiums for green products such as low-VOC paints, laminates and bamboo are decreasing. “That made it easier economically to go green and still have a café environment,” he adds.
Project Participants
Client
Organic To Go, Seattle
Design/Architect
The Heiserman Group LLC, Bethesda, Md.
Flooring
Mosaic Tile Co., Chantilly, Va.
Lighting
Seascape Lamps, San Francisco
Exterior Signage
Atlas Sign Industries, West Palm Beach, Fla.
Wallcoverings and Materials
York Wall Coverings, York, Pa.
Teragren LLC, Bainsbridge Island, Wash.
Woodwork/Tile
Wilcox Woodworks Inc., Manassas, Va.