My name is Alaina Vettraino and I am a third-year Interior Design student at Virginia Tech. From a young age, I have always loved being in charge of the space around me, not only for the visual appeal but for the positive impact on people’s experiences and the community as a whole. As a designer, I’m captivated by the potential each space holds and the overall transformation. Outside of design, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, sewing, shopping, and being outdoors.
Vettraino Cafe Coffee Lover’s Oasis
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Portland Pottery Futuristic Retail Store
Vettraino Cafe
Coffee Lover's Oasis - A Spatial Experience that Nurtures the Senses
I envisioned this café as a place where people could gather and enjoy a cup of coffee together. To create a welcoming and lively atmosphere, I designed a light, open concept featuring big tables and plenty of seating. For those who prefer solitude, there is high bar seating available. The café is located in the Boston Seaport, at the corner of B Street and Seaport Boulevard. Given the high foot traffic in this area, many people will be coming in and out throughout the day. To complement this vibrant location, I chose a modern Mediterranean aesthetic with a pop of blue.
Space Planning
The layout of this Boston café draws inspiration from the modern Mediterranean style, particularly evident in the tile flooring and architectural arches. The design concept emphasizes a sense of community with large tables and ample seating to foster a communal atmosphere.
Parti Diagram
Block Diagram
Bubble Diagram
Cafe Branding / Merchandise
Axon
Dovetail Steelcase
Montara 650 Table
Steelcase by Coalesse
LessThanFive Chair
Steelcase by Coalesse
Perspective of the communal and individual seating, featuring blue chairs, quartz tables, and decorative wall tiles.
Steelcase by West Elm
West Elm Health Sterling Collection
Perspective of the main coffee bar that includes hightop sea
Evening perspective of the communal and individual seating ting, the register, and the merchandise shelving
Steelcase by Tom Dixon Fast Stool 75
VL Ring Crown 1 Wall Lamp
Vilhelm Lauritzen
Doo-Wop Pendant
Louis Poulsen
Portland Pottery
Futuristic Retail Store
Portland Pottery is an innovative store that seamlessly integrates traditional craftsmanship with advanced VR and AR technologies. A unique and immersive experience curating functional and decorative ceramics, blending timeless elegance with contemporary design. Involving collaboration and creativity while educating and inspiring clients.
Problem Statement
Located at 201 Federal St, Portland, Maine, is Portland Pottery. Portland Pottery is a ceramic store that sells products catered to the contemporary lifestyle integrated with AR and VR technology. Accommodated to a diverse client base, ranging from art enthusiasts and collectors to tech-savvy individuals seeking innovative home decor. The store is aimed to be innovative, engaging, and sustainable, but with the use of AR there is a challenge of not compromising the authenticity and artistic value of each product.
Feature Wall
Process Sketches
Parti Diagram Zoning
Exploded Axon
Ceiling Design
Heavy Plaster Wallpaper
Steelcase Natural Cherry V1AC
Steelcase
Black Brushed Aluminum
Steelcase Neutral Concrete
Perspective overview of the store showing the feature wall, register, displays, elevator, and stairs
Perspective from the second floor of the fea
Steelcas
Willow L
wall, ceiling, and lighting
Evening perspective featuring the interactive technology display that informs shoppers about the history of each product
