From Blank Space to Community Sanctuary – A Design-Build Transformation Rooted in Purpose
Some projects begin with a floor plan. Others, like Down to Earth Café, begin with a purpose. Located in the heart of Mechanicsburg, PA, this newly opened café isn’t just serving meals—it’s serving intention. Founded on the belief that “we are made to gather, eat whole foods, and support one another,” Down to Earth Café came to Hannold Associates with a dream to turn a raw commercial space into a warm, welcoming place where people could slow down, eat well, and reconnect.
Together with Hannold Management, we brought that vision to life—transforming an empty shell into a vibrant neighborhood café through a streamlined and thoughtful design-build process.
Rooted in Mission, Reflected in Design
As the café founders share:
“We are a family passionate about health, food, and people… We believe that being intentional about what we put in our bodies affects our well-being and how we show up in the world.”
That level of care and clarity shaped every part of the design process. Our team took the time to understand their values—wholeness, connection, simplicity, and sustainability—and translate them into a built environment that feels grounded, open, and true to their voice.
Turning Vision into a Physical Experience
When we first walked the site, it was a blank canvas: exposed systems, concrete floors, and wide-open potential. We worked with the Down to Earth team to transform the space into something cohesive and purposeful.
Key elements of the transformation included:
Open, Flowing Layout
Designed to encourage conversation and calm movement, with a mix of seating types and intuitive ordering zones.Natural, Honest Materials
Wood, greenery, soft textures, and warm tones mirror the brand’s emphasis on real food and grounded living.Clean Lines & Organic Accents
Subtle curves, clean counters, and hand-finished touches balance modern simplicity with artisan charm.Functional Kitchen & Service Design
Efficient prep and service zones allow the team to operate smoothly, even in high-volume moments.Brand Identity Integration
From the wall finishes to the signage and even light fixtures, every detail echoes the Down to Earth mission of nourishment and authenticity.
A Unified Team: Design + Build
Because this project was completed under a design-build model, Hannold Associates (design) and Hannold Management (construction) were able to:
Collaborate in real time on both design intent and construction execution
Reduce delays and streamline decisions on materials, finishes, and layout refinements
Deliver a custom-crafted space while respecting budget and timeline goals
Stay deeply aligned with the owner’s values every step of the way
The result is a café that’s both personal and practical—a reflection of the people behind it and the community it serves.
A Café Made for Connection
Down to Earth Café is now open in Mechanicsburg, serving nourishing meals and intentional energy. From breakfast bowls to baked goods, their menu reflects the same care that went into their space:
“We hope when you walk through the doors, you feel at home. You feel seen. You feel nourished.”
📍 Down to Earth Café
101 Gettysburg Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
🌐 www.downtoearthcafeco.com
Dreaming of opening your own café or wellness space?
We specialize in helping business owners like you bring beautiful, brand-aligned spaces to life—on time and on budget. Whether it’s your first location or a fresh new concept, our team can help you plan, design, and build with confidence.
Let’s build something meaningful—together.