Even though we’re known for our foggy summers, we love to soak up the sunshine whenever and wherever we can in San Francisco. But since so much is crammed into the 7-by-7 square miles of our city, outdoor space is hard to come by. Luckily, the city’s new Pavement to Parks initiative, where small outdoor seating areas and parks are temporarily built on the street, allows some of our favorite restaurants and cafes to take advantage of public space.
The Four Barrel Parklet in front of Four Barrel Coffee’s Valencia Street shop is one of our favorites. Designed and built in conjunction with Boor Bridges Architecture, the surprisingly elegant wood, metal and brick design combines extra seating and bike parking outside the always crowded café.
This particular parklet was one of the first in the city, and definitely doesn’t skimp on the design factor. A coffee bar provides sitting and standing room in the sunshine, while hanging bike racks allow patrons to store their bikes safely.
Not only does the parklet better Four Barrel’s business and provide a perfect spot to sip on their amazing coffee, but it also improves and beautifies the surrounding neighborhood. Go and visit the parklet at Four Barrel‘s Valencia location next time you’re in San Francisco!