Architects + Artists Art Gallery - 2000-2012
David Courville, Architect - 2000-2012
Greg Walls Building + Design - 2000-2012
Rêve Coffee Roasters - 2012-CURRENT
Architects + Artists and the offices of David Courville and Greg Walls:
In 2000, Walls-Studio acquired its first commercial building in Downtown Lafayette, Louisiana. Originally intended to house an architectural studio for David Courville, Architect, and an office for Greg Walls Building + Design, the space exceeded our needs. To maximize its use, we retrofitted half of the building into an art gallery.
Our design approach preserved the integrity of the building's exterior while introducing a modern interior aesthetic that contrasted with its original features. We replaced the exterior glass with butt-joint glazed panels to emphasize the verticality of the 12 foot high ceilings and retained the original skylights to maintain soft natural light. As a nod to the building's history, we chose to keep the original "Auto Top Shop" signage above the front entrance, honoring its roots.
Rêve Coffee Roasters:
In 2012, the building found new life when Rêve Coffee Roasters moved into the 3,000 square foot space. As a developer and builder, it’s deeply rewarding to see this building thrive, repurposed as Lafayette’s premier coffee shop and roastery, continuing its legacy with a fresh and vibrant use.
(Rêve Coffee Roasters photo credit: Ana Treuil Photography)
