The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has announced the reopening of its Chocolate Experience Store in San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Square. International design firm Eight Inc. spearheaded upgrades to the chocolate mecca, which is housed within the historic 19th-century Woolen Mill building, to reflect a more modern sensibility.
“In collaboration with the Ghirardelli team, we aimed to blend historic elements of the iconic space with new and engaging components of the Ghirardelli retail environment,” says Eight Inc. managing principal Edmond Kuan. “The space captivates visitors with incredible views, interactive features, and a bit of nostalgia—all a great backdrop for enjoying Ghirardelli chocolate.”
New elements—including a custom inlay of the Ghirardelli golden eagle and handsome tilework adorning surfaces like the sundae bar—complement original red brick walls and timber beams. Handpainted murals and a collection of Ghirardelli advertising paraphernalia dating all the way back to the mid-19th century is also on display. The store’s interior frames chocolatiers at work as well as peerless vistas of the San Francisco Bay via massive warehouse windows.
A second renovation phase, slated for completion in January 2023, will reintroduce Ghirardelli’s Original Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop.
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