[Image courtesy of Playhouse Village Association]
Wallace said the eight pavilions, installed to enhance the outdoor dining experience at the area, were designed by local architecture firm Moule & Polyzoides and built by VX Design Solutions.
They are built from a single design, which “provides continuity and a sense of stronger identity for the entire Village Al Fresco program,” said Wallace. “The uniform design then allows participating restaurants to individualize their pavilions with unique furnishings and service.”
While all the eight pavilions will be opened on Saturday, some “finishing touches” including shade sails and cafe lighting will be added over the next couple of weeks to enhance their overall look.
Wallace believes the pavilions will not only beautify Colorado Boulevard but will also support the business community.
According to a press release, two Playhouse Village restaurants will participate in Village Al Fresco Pavilions. They are family-owned Anaya’s Restaurant and the newly opened Tepito Coffee.
The third set of Village Al Fresco Pavilions will serve as a communal dining space where visitors can enjoy eating takeout from adjacent restaurants and cafes or simply take a pause for a chat with friends.
“The opportunity for outdoor dining continues to be extremely vital for our business and we are excited to elevate that dining experience for our customers with the new Village Al Fresco Pavilions,” Juan Carlos Anaya, owner of Anaya’s Restaurant said. “We look forward to welcoming Pasadena to come out and see the transformation.”
The Village Al Fresco Pavilions project by the Playhouse Village Association is made possible with the support of key partners including Playhouse Village Foundation, Anaya’s Restaurant, Tepito Coffee, LA Metro and Active SGV, and the City of Pasadena.
Wallace revealed that the Playhouse Village Association, a nonprofit which serves to enhance and promote the economic vitality of Playhouse Village, is planning to expand its Village Al Fresco program in the future.
“Current project funding was sufficient only for the initial eight pavilions, but the Playhouse Village Foundation as a funding partner will be working to secure additional sponsorships, donations and grants to sustain and grow the program after installation is complete,” Wallace said.
“The project is a true collaboration between many partners and is an effort we hope will enhance the vibrancy and sense of community. It is one step to creating a more vibrant Colorado Boulevard and Playhouse Village and we encourage the community to come out and enjoy,” said Wallace.
Donations to support the Village Al Fresco Pavilions initiative can be made to Playhouse Village Foundation at playhousevillagefoundation.org.
To learn more about Village Al Fresco and other projects of PVA, visit playhousevillage.org.
