Traditional service bar manufacturing is utilitarian, cheap, and prioritizes cost-cutting over aesthetic. Hospitality customers complain of long lead-times, decreased availability of tradespeople, pricing ambiguity, and a lack of knowledge around designing an operationally efficient bar.

Thankfully, our products can help eliminate these problems. At Capsule, we clarify the process by exploring the customer’s individual requirements, goals, and constraints. Then, we clearly propose a solution, complete with transparent pricing and engineering models. The result? An optimized hospitality setup, manufactured and installed on time and in budget.

We service all segments of the hospitality industry. Our customers range from new operators to large multinational corporations outfitting hospitals, airports, workplace campuses, hotels, or event centers. So what does the process look like in the context of a specific project? Let’s take a deep dive into one of our favorite hospitality projects so far!

When Intelligentsia opened its doors on Abbot Kinney in 2009, the vision wasn't like anything in the coffee industry at the time. They sought to “bring down the barrier between customer and barista” by providing a one-on-one, customized experience.

“The inspiration is almost like a salon where individual stations will be manned by one barista,” said Kyle Glanville. “They customize the experience depending on how they like to work. You can be as high maintenance as you want to be and not have a line of people behind you.” (LA Times)

Part of this barrier removal was a new take on the typical coffee bar. They got rid of the counter between the customer and barista. The bar design was unique and housed an impressive amount of state-of-the-art equipment.

In 2020, over 10 years after they first opened their doors, we were honored to be a part of updating the iconic bar while maintaining the original spirit and inspiration. We utilized our unique process with 3D-integrated design, in-factory machine manufacturing, and the consolidation of skilled trades to provide the optimal product for Intelligentsia’s needs.

Our process always begins with collaborative planning and lots of listening on our part. We understood that Intelligentsia required a highly personal and aesthetically pleasing customer experience while still prioritizing functionality to contain their equipment and ensure a smooth workflow. Designing fully in CAD enabled us to build a detailed and precise model to the exact specifications needed.

After the design was complete, we manufactured a vertically integrated product, directly from CAD design to the production floor. Our automated machinery cuts structural parts from stainless steel sheet metal, making the process efficient and precise. With our combination of detailed design, equipment specification, cabinetmakers, electricians, and many other skilled trades, we were able to build a complex final product all in one place. This process was ideal for minimizing impact to the existing, public-facing space on Abbot Kinney. Since all production was done off-site at our factory, the time that the shop needed to be closed down was significantly minimized - only needing to accommodate a short installation period.

After we completed a full set up and test of the modular unit, we personally managed the installation, overseeing assembly and utility connections. With every step of the project, we provided tailored support and cost-saving benefits that traditional construction simply couldn’t. We are incredibly proud of the work we did with Intelligentsia Abbot Kinney, and hope you'll pay a visit!

The Coffee Bar Reimagined at Intelligentsia Abbot Kinney