Silvia Schaeffer · CLIENT: Silvia Schaeffer Design
Aera transforms a vacant commercial space into a warm and multifunctional interior that combines a bookstore, a coffee area, and a flexible community zone. Wooden pergolas define spatial sequences and support the lighting system, while wood finishes, greenery, and soft illumination create a calm atmosphere. Clear circulation, modular millwork, and fully accessible pathways ensure comfort and ease of use. The event area accommodates book clubs, film sessions, workshops, and social gatherings, allowing the space to adapt to different community needs.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The client discovered an empty commercial space in Michigan and envisioned transforming it into a bookstore with an attached coffee shop. To support the desire for larger gatherings, book clubs, and movie nights, Silvia designed a spacious multifunctional area equipped with a large screen. Warm wood finishes and abundant greenery were incorporated throughout to create a harmonious, calming, and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Aera occupies 353 square meters. The project features sustainable wood flooring and environmentally friendly finishes. Custom wooden pergolas support the lighting grid and define zones within the open plan. The existing ceiling was retained and painted black to recede visually. Modular millwork optimizes book display, and the layout ensures full wheelchair accessibility. Curved ergonomic furniture and earth tone materials enhance comfort and spatial coherence.
- Tags
- Aera, bookstore design, interior design, sustainable materials, wood pergolas, commercial space, cultural space, Michigan design, modular millwork, nature inspired design
- Production Technology
- A connected design was achieved by repeating a controlled palette of colors and textures across all zones, ensuring visual continuity. Circulation paths were defined through spatial sequencing and ergonomic shelf placement, while modular millwork allowed flexible product display. A dedicated media area was integrated with acoustic considerations to support film sessions and literary events.
- Design Challenge
- The main challenge was converting a large empty office into a warm cultural space under tight budget and time constraints. The ceiling could not be replaced, so it was painted black and paired with new wooden pergolas to define zones and support lighting. Climate concerns required a wooden panel to block winter drafts. Limited resources demanded sustainable materials, modular millwork, and full accessibility, all integrated despite structural restrictions.
- Project Duration
- The project commenced in June 2023 in Oxford, Michigan. Construction began in October 2023 and continued through February 2024, during which the interior architecture, custom millwork, lighting structures, and material applications were fully executed. The completed space reflects the design intent established at project initiation.
- Operation Flow
- Aera guides visitors naturally from the entrance into reading areas, the coffee zone, and the event space. Wooden pergolas mark each zone and create warm lighting that encourages people to stay. Curved furniture, greenery, and soft colors make the large interior feel calm and easy to navigate. Shelves are accessible, pathways are clear, and every area supports both quiet moments and group gatherings.
- Research
- Aera used spatial and user experience research. The goal was to turn an empty office into a warm cultural space. Methods included site analysis, circulation mapping, climate review, and material tests. Data came from client interviews and field observation. Findings showed the need for clear zones, warm lighting, sustainable materials, and accessibility. These insights shaped the pergolas, modular millwork, and winter panel, improving comfort, flow, and community use.
- Inspiration
- Silvia brought this vision to life by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere shaped by natural wood finishes and generous greenery, bringing the calm of nature into the interior. Every element was chosen to evoke comfort and ease, allowing the space to feel both intimate and open. The final design not only invites visitors to explore the shelves and enjoy the retail experience, but also encourages them to stay longer, sharing coffee and conversation with friends in a setting that feels relaxed and familiar.
- Image Credits
- Image #1: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Render 1, 2024
Image #2: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Render 2, 2024
Image #3: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Render 3, 2024
Image #4: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Render 4, 2024
Image #5: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Render 5, 2024
Video Credits: Visual Designer Sergio Santi, Aera Video, 2024 - Patents
- Copyrights belong to Silvia Schaeffer, 2024
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