Project Description:
When Bridget Thibodeau-Sasso, importer of wines, oil and food from boutique Italian producers, sought to open a roots-to-table authentic Italian market in Washington, D.C., she called upon local architecture and design firm //3877 to reimagine the former Silver Spork space for her new retail concept, Radici. David Shove-Brown, co-founder of //3877 had taught in Italy and was very familiar with Italian product and overall culture inspiring a marketplace that reflects the quality and tradition of what Italy does best, food.

The 1,600 square foot market and cafe, adjacent to the district’s popular Eastern Market in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, features imported gourmet Italian products such as bread, meats, cheeses, wine, and coffee.

Shove-Brown and his project team drew inspiration from the brand’s name “Radici,” Italian for “roots” as well as authentic Italian markets, cafes, and restaurants. For Radici, the team developed a layout featuring extensive millwork, lighting and sustainable materials intended to transport guests to old world Italy.

The firm flipped the layout of the former Silver Spork space to create a more seamless flow of shoppers through the market. At the entrance, a cafe serving fresh coffee and pastries greets customers as they step inside. Radici features a communal table and benches for those wanting to grab a bite to eat (paninis and salads are made in house) within the new cafe. As shoppers venture further, a variety of Italian made products including pastas and breads are displayed on custom shelving made from reclaimed wood. The firm chose an earthy color palette to evoke the old world Italian authenticity of Radici’s brand and products.

Terracotta tile, brick, wood tones and custom millwork can be found throughout, creating a rustic atmosphere for shoppers to wind down with a glass of wine, pick up simple, delicious ingredients for their family’s dinner, or pick up an espresso on the run. Decorative glass lighting fixtures complement the space’s natural textures, creating a warm glow throughout.