Lvl Up Community Cafe
Bronzeville, Chicago, IL
LVL UP represents not only the realization of a dream but a place of endless possibility for Onofre-Shah, a first-generation Mexican American and West Lawn native. Some people wax poetic about community, but few rarely work to create it, she said.
The Bronzeville coffee shop not only serves the neighborhood but provides a third space for community events, local workshops and mentorship.
The space provides both a quick coffee in the morning and space for a more leisurely encounter. This upbeat and lively space will be a host to small local events and support professionals connecting with each other and youth. The design showcases a playful floor with light toned custom millwork throughout. As a new business in Bronzeville the project fills a much needed gap in the community.
Architecture for Public Benefit served as design collaborator for the project.
Client: Lvl Up Community Café
Size: 2,250 SF
Completion Date: 2025
Services: Restaurant, Café, Retail
Photographs by Civic Projects, Griffin Imaging and Ed Koziarski.