Situated in the southwest corner of 610 & N Braeswood sits this stand-alone drive-thru Starbucks which we were able to use a unique blend of materials to create a beautiful design on a very challenging site.

The primary consideration of the design for this project was to create a building that could withstand flooding without affecting the project’s curb appeal. In prior years this site suffered through 500-year flooding events two years in a row and then again after being built during Hurricane Harvey. BDG found a flood proofing membrane that would work for the project’s needs. The membrane wraps four courses of CMU that stands 2’ 8” above grade — more than a foot higher than the base flood elevation for the area at the time of design. Thin-set brick and tile, attached to the membrane with self-sealing fasteners, achieved the Starbucks look.

Ingress and egress was accomplished with special flood proof doors; two for the exterior restrooms and one for employee entry. There is no usable indoor space, however, a pergola with contemporary furniture, lights, and fans creates a comfortable outdoor space which will serve pedestrian users for years to come. 

The structure faced its first major test during Hurricane Harvey. Aside from a small amount of water that got into the restrooms, the rest of the building remained water-tight. A remarkable feat, especially considering the volume of water at the site.

Considerations of resiliency and sustainability applied to these types of everyday projects, like a neighborhood Starbucks, help them to continue to thrive through extreme weather events.