Project Sectors
HISTORY
The Kids in the Hall Bistro was started by e4c, as a Social Enterprise, and operated in Edmonton City Hall for over two decades, before this most recent renovation. When the e4c decided to reimagine their space and their programme to better serve the needs of youth in training they reached out to Reimagine to bring their vision to life.
THE CHALLENGE
The new Hallway Cafe is a place where "Social good meets good food" working with at-risk youth to develop skills that serve them when they graduate, for work in the food service industry. The new space had to be designed to accommodate youth and their instructors, working effectively in a generous kitchen, while preparing enjoyable and fresh meals for City Hall visitors. Making the seating areas smaller allowed for the expanded kitchen.
DESIGN
Through and extensive community engagement process, the image of a :place to call home" emerged. Youth wanted to feel connected and have a sense of community. The playful house-like forms in the cafe and the large chalk walls provide spaces for youth to modify to space, and feel safe.
The light, bright, inviting "grab-and-go" cafe is a delightful addition to City Hall, and is well used by City Hall staff and downtown residents.
