07/23/2026
Lutra Cafe & Bakery is open in Durham’s American To***co Campus — and we couldn’t be more proud of this one. 🥐
This project was a lot of fun to design, and that energy was intentional. From the bold tile mix of teal, coral, and grey to the custom teal bakery display case, every decision was made to create an experience as vibrant as Chef Chris McLaurin’s baked goods and personality.
The layout guides you through the space — past the huge folding glass doors, to the merch shelving, to the bakery display, and finally to the ambrosia maple coffee bar counter, the heart of the whole experience. We designed several custom features including the shelving system above the coffee bar and a custom bent-tube LED fixture that casts a warm glow across the bar.
Our favorite detail? The salvaged kitchen window — a nod to French bakery tradition, original to the American To***co Campus building.
Architecture & Interior Design: West Workshop - Architecture & Interiors
General Contractor: Gateway Building Company
Engineer: Stratus Team LLC
Millwork: Elijah Leed Studio and James Boyer
Photos: Stacey Sprenz
📍 Durham, NC
***coCampus