Ionic DeZign Studios was invited to participate in planning session in Columbus Ohio, home of the famous Wendy's Restaurant brand this week. A select number of architects and builders were gathered to brainstorm the collective process and numerous challenges involved in renovating or building a new Wendy's Restaurant.
The two day seminar brought parties together from all over the US including Canada. We reviewed the past and then discussed growth plans through 2020. It was a great team building experience that allowed us to CONNECT, LEARN and GROW by sharing best practices in the architecture and construction industries.
Dahlia White, Director of Restaurant Architecture for IONIC has managed the design of more than 150 different stores since we were first began working with the hamburger giant and assisting in their rebranding exercise in 2011. We were asked at that
time to assist in their rebranding exercise. Dahlia continues to build
relationships with Wendy’s while managing their current projects. She was
excited to finally meet face-to-face with many project members that so often
are only a voice on the phone or a name on the email. It felt like coming
together for a Wendy’s family reunion!
During the conference, both Dahlia, along with Eugene Thompson, Founder + President of IONIC participated in a quick design charette study for a non-traditional location in downtown Philadelphia. It was a corner
spot that previously housed a two-story historic bank structure clad in white
stone. This was a fun opportunity for us all to collaborate to come up with
possible solutions for a unique design challenge. There will be more locations
like this in the coming years as it is anticipated that about 30% of future
Wendy’s projects will be non-traditional in nature.
It was an excellent experience and an opportunity for IONIC
to continue to grow throughout the country. Our firm hopes to continue assisting
corporate and franchise owners with their redevelopment work. TEAM IONIC is
also looking to work with owners and contractors who share our desire to
produce quality work for all.
We don't cut corners!
Let us help with your Wendy's or other restaurant project. Please feel free to give us a call to discuss how we can help and serve you.
D. Eugene Thompson, AIA
Founder + President
Creating places and spaces that enrich the lives of those who use them.
