Bovaconti

Indianapolis, IN

Aiming to expand their downtown Indianapolis coffee shop's presence from the city's mile square to the nearby Fountain Square neighborhood this local business owner envisioned a coffee bistro that would capture the distinctive essence of Fountain Square while exuding sophistication. They selected an existing building, formerly a local jewelry shop called Bovaconti, strategically located at the heart of Fountain Square with excellent access to public transit. Upon entering the café, customers are greeted with an open, well-lit space where baristas work behind the coffee bar. The design blends vibrant colors and ample natural light, revitalizing what was once a neglected building. Thoughtful integration of new elements with the building's historical features allow visitors to effortlessly experience the building’s journey to its new purpose. The interior layout is streamlined, optimizing functionality while keeping construction costs in check. A quiet lounge situated at the end of the building allows patrons to enjoy an intimately scaled space for a drink and respite. With refreshed materials and a comfortable atmosphere, Bovaconti now proudly serves its neighborhood with renewed enthusiasm.

Awards

2024 - American Institute of Architects - Indianapolis Citation Award

Media

Interior of a modern coffee shop with pink tiled walls, teal painted tin ceiling, stainless steel cabinets, plants, and a bar area with coffee machines and drinks.
Inside a modern coffee shop with high painted tin ceiling, green lighting, brick walls, and patterned black and white tile floor. The counter displays drinks and equipment, with a neon sign in background reading 'Caffeine' and chairs and tables.
Interior of a modern cafe in a historic renovated space with geometric patterned tile floor, brick wall, large windows, bar counter, and seating area with brown chairs.
Interior of a stylish cafe with exposed red brick walls, a green ornate ceiling, blue velvet seating, and five small tables with light pink chairs. Copper wall-mounted light fixtures and patterned tile floor add to the decor.
Floor plan of a coffee shop's first floor showing various labeled areas including an existing covered entry, entry, order area, merchandise section, coffee bar, lounge, ADA restroom, new storefront opening, and a new covered patio.
A cozy cafe interior with a black-and-white geometric patterned floor, pink and gray walls, a shelf with coffee bags, a framed pink beverage illustration on the wall, and a counter with black chairs by a large window letting in natural light.
Exterior of a modern building with large storefront windows, illuminated interior, street sidewalk, and art painted utility box outside during dusk.

Photography

Keith Isaacs