Summer Design Series: Tour D.C. Starbucks Stores for the 4th of July

In the nation’s capital, Starbucks is a gathering place for local residents, tourists, business professionals, and politicians alike. Take a tour of distinctive Starbucks® stores Washington, D.C. as the country celebrates Independence Day.

18th and H

In 1791, when Pierre L’Enfant drew up plans for the young capital city, he sketched a city with the U.S. Capitol at the high point in the center, with broad avenues radiating outward atop a grid pattern of streets. L’Enfant, who was born in France and came to the country to fight with the Americans in the Revolutionary War, envisioned a democratic space that was open to all citizens – and his blueprint continues to guide and define Washington to the day.

More than 200 years later, Starbucks new store at 18th and H pays tribute to L’Enfant’s vision in a custom wrought iron piece that captures L’Enfant’s design.

The store, which was among the first to open in the District of Columbia in 1995, serves customers in the heart of the city’s business center. Renovated in the style of a Parisian bistro (a subtle nod to L’Enfant’s French roots), the space features a chartreuse tile backsplash and round leather stools add punches of color against the chocolate brown woods. A Clover® brewing system at the end of the bar brews Starbucks Reserve® coffees by the cup, while hand painted artwork highlights the craft of producing Starbucks® coffee. 

More than 200 years later, Starbucks new store at 18th and H pays tribute to L’Enfant’s vision in a custom wrought iron piece that captures L’Enfant’s design. 

1730 Pennsylvania Avenue

When President Barack Obama stepped out for a break in the summer of 2014, he popped into his neighborhood Starbucks at 1730 Pennsylvania Avenue, just a stone’s throw from The White House grounds.

The store, a favorite among government workers and businesspeople since it opened in March 1995, was renovated in neutral colors shades of creams and browns. An art wall above the banquette seating, made from industrial-inspired shelving with brass plumbing fixtures and espresso-stained wood planks, features photos and artwork that showcase the company’s community initiatives. 

Capitol Hill

Follow Pennsylvania Avenue past The White House and U.S. Capitol to reach the Capitol Hill Starbucks® store, serving staffers and lobbyists on The Hill since 2001. The reimagined space draws upon the area’s rich commercial and political history just blocks away from the Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and House and Senate office buildings.

The design features locally sourced materials as well as reused and recycled elements. Wood used for the community tables, banquettes and trim was locally sourced, with flooring was made from reclaimed wood in nearby Charlottesville, Virginia. Exposed red brick walls, found in row houses throughout the neighborhood, add warmth and historical charm. Upstairs, a fireplace and cozy sitting area offer a welcoming place for conversation at the end of a busy day.

About Starbucks Design

With more than 18 in-house design studios around the world, Starbucks is driven by its commitment to environmental sustainability, local relevancy, and bringing bold and innovative design to customers.