The Mill: A "Bright and Messy" SF Cafe - Remodelista
SF firm Boor Bridges Architecture is behind some of the most happening restaurants in the Bay Area (Trou Normand, from the Bar Agricole team, for instance). The cafe is a collaboration between Josey Baker (yes, his real name), a bread baker who is as enthusiastic about good loaves as he is about jumping into rivers in the nude, and Fourbarrel Coffee. Photography by Bruce Damonte for Boor Bridges Architecture, unless otherwise noted. The long, narrow space is airy and bright thanks to white walls and a sculptural skylight. Custom shelving made by woodworker Alex Palecko from reclaimed Douglas fir runs the length of the restaurant. A cross section of the space shows the mix of woods: white oak, Douglas fir, and ash. Rows of ceiling beams are built beneath skylights and a light soffit; it all works to concentrate filtered light over the bakery and barista area. Kneading bread on a custom table built by Alex Palecko. Stacks of loaves behind the bar. Window seats are the most coveted spots in the cafe. The rectangular shelving system is ideal for display. For more to explore in the area, visit our San Francisco Bay Area City Guide. Below: Location of The Mill in NOPA, San Francisco: