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Milano Gelato + Crepe Café was operating out of a 10-year-old kiosk at Los Cerritos Mall. When they were tasked with a remodel, the owner asked a/k/a creatives to deliver a fresh brand identity that complements their products as well as their name. We were also challenged to keep construction cost and time to a minimum while creating maximum work flow and meeting the newest codes. Reduction of the square footage created another hurdle to jump through. While we created the most efficient floor plan with less space, we were able to keep all existing plumbing that worked with new layout.

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 a/k/a creatives’ signature design of highly visual texture and impact creates a memorable new look, a 180-degree departure from the previous branding, yet still reminiscent of the old Italian look and feel. Perfect balance between large pattern graphic tiles and chevron wood (which could be overwhelming if mixed incorrectly) was achieved by employing the monolithic marble-like stone. The eating counter adds another layer of conditionality to kiosk and encourages customers to enjoy their food. This element brings energy to kiosk by encouraging customer conversation and engagement with the chefs.    

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The plan check took less than four weeks, and the construction took no more than five weeks with all-new cabinets and additional plumbing. The kiosk opened early November of 2018. The owner is very happy with the process and outcome of the project.