With an emphasis on the end-user, TONO was able to draw a distinction between buyers by providing two retail environments: one for retail and one for wholesale. By cladding the former masonry veneer, the streetscape presence physically demonstrates its intended duality.
The structure was bisected with a thickened stone wall element, which served as the physical demising element between the primary functions while simultaneously joining the facility along a series of carved spaces for display, storage, and retail engagement.
The primary functional and visual element within the establishment became the physical manifestation of the company’s brand as a stone supply store. Aiding to the owner’s desire to showcase his company’s heritage and the genuine nature of his products and wares, displays and counter areas were fabricated from salvaged materials including White Oak, Wormy Chestnut, galvanized corrugated steel, and black iron pipe. A sensitive architectural approach drew upon the material language of the proprietor’s material sourcing and items salvaged from the property.
By reconstructing the original structure with a contemporary vision and using enduring material applications, the revitalized Penn Stone exhibits sustainable building practices and community engagement. With the expanded materials demonstration courtyard constructed within the former supply yard, the facility has become a community amenity that used for special events, neighborhood gatherings.
The previously unfriendly industrial site now hosts cooking demonstrations, seminars, outdoor parties, and small concerts. The fully integrated series of architectural and landscape enhancements clearly demonstrate the transformative power of good design to bring new vitality to an older business. By capturing the heritage of the family-owned business in represented architectural dimension, its patrons, neighbors, and surrounding community have embraced the business as a resource and much more than a retail establishment.