Pilot Coffee Roasters
Designers | MSDS Studio; Effie Theodosiou
Location | Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Launch date | June 1, 2021
The redesign of our original cafe launched in June of 2021. Interior design was led by MSDS Studio in Toronto and our feature mural was designed and installed by local muralist, Effie Theodosiou. We brought new life into this space by playing into its minimalist, open concept appeal (in what was originally an automotive shop). Throughout Toronto, our cafes have become synonymous with a premium and modern aesthetic inspired by Scandinavian design. Prior to the renovation, the cafe had all the markers of our original brand and namesake, Te Aro Roasters and so there was a clear aesthetic disconnect. Now, with its soft white interior, oak cabinetry, tile bar and metal detailing, we have created a familiar and inviting experience for customers who know what to expect from Pilot Coffee Roasters. Every design and layout choice was made to appeal to Leslieville: home to our first customers who have followed along and supported us as our brand evolves.
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By aligning the cafe look and feel with other locations throughout Toronto, Queen St. East has become a familiar place with intentional differences to meet the needs of the community. We wanted to create an attention-grabbing hub for specialty coffee service and education. It’s a premium, minimalist aesthetic that literally opened the doors for us to share our passion for great coffee and commitment to quality. Particularly, we wanted a design that showcases our goods that span across the specialty coffee experience: from the open-concept espresso bar, to the large retail space to the naturally-diffused lighting that pierces through the garage doors. These elements are all emphasized to provide a welcoming atmosphere.
Last but not least, we love the custom-designed mural by local artist, Effie Theodosiou. It adds a bit of fun, charm and is a vibrant backdrop for seated guests. Our lineup of signature blends and seasonal single origins have a special place in the hearts of the Leslieville community. This is where it all began, and over the years, our customers have developed a sense of local pride for our continued success. While the coffees we source and roast do connect with customers, it’s the exceptional service from our well-trained baristas that make a deeper connection beyond just preference. Our team wonderfully represents quality, consistency and the friendly appeal of our east end neighborhood.
This is a full-service cafe that offers whole beans, brewing equipment, accessories, and merchandise. Behind the bar is a range of rotating espresso and brew options, Pilot Cold Brew, a rotating seasonal signature drink, and other specialty beverages. The coffee program is supported by a growing menu of freshly baked goods and healthy snacks made fresh daily in our kitchen which is also on location. As difficult as it was to see our original roastery and cafe “grow up,” the experience has been nothing short of incredible. Seeing how the much-needed changes has been embraced by the community and team members have outweighed the sentimental challenges. We are so incredibly proud of this space as a pure representation of our business as it stands today.
The small details that remind us of our humble beginnings, and the memories that still fill this space with so much joy are very tangible, and we are so excited for this new and improved chapter. We played into the minimalist, open concept appeal of the space and considered sustainability throughout the project. By working exclusively with local vendors – including seating, tables and light features – we were able to keep the carbon footprint of the project low. Beyond design, the cafe has prioritized sustainability by encouraging guests to bring their own mug by offering a 25 cent discount. We also provide paper straws, biodegradable cutlery, and perform milk waste audits on a monthly basis. As restrictions loosen from the COVID pandemic, there will be more opportunities to reduce waste while maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
