STRATA: Culinary Institute and Destination Restaurant

Caden Pfendler

Interior Design, 2023

Located in the heart of the arts district in Franklinton, Ohio, Strata poses a holistic approach to maintaining a steady income while obtaining a General Education Degree. Strata is a poetic combination of Culinary Arts Institute, Hospitality Management Education, and Destination Restaurant. Only 45% of Franklinton residents have a high school degree and one-third of the population lives below the poverty line. High school dropout rates increase significantly with age, so it is critical to provide alternative forms of education as early as possible.

Strata is targeted at young adults, ages 16 to 24. By partnering with Columbus State students will acquire a GED at their own pace. They are led by industry professionals in the teaching kitchen and restaurant, where they get paid to apply their skills. Strata provides affordable access to education and healthy food for Franklinton.

Caden Pfendler project image 2 — A view from the entrance of the restaurant. Guests are offered a variety of seating and can have a front row seat to watch chefs work at the dining counter.

Caden Pfendler project image 3 — The teaching kitchen is outfitted with four two-person work stations. An instructor has a large work station with multiple displays above it, allowing close up demonstrations and lessons. A prep and hot line are placed in the back of the room, allowing pedestrians to gaze in from the street.

Caden Pfendler project image 4 — The classroom encourages flexibility and collaboration. Height adjustable chairs and tables on rollers allow the students set up the environment for their needs. Tall windows energize the space.

Caden Pfendler project image 5 — An overall floorplan of Strata. The building is divided into Hospitality and Education halves with large windows connecting the spaces.

View Thesis Documentation Here!

Caden Pfendler is currently a Senior studying Interior Design at The Ohio State University. He has a passion for creating beautiful, immersive, and memorable environments. Caden believes interior design allows him to directly improve the experiences of those around him. Caden has specific interests in Hospitality and Work Place projects. Outside of work he can always be found doing something active. Caden is on the Ohio State Powerlifting team and enjoys playing golf, fly fishing, snowboarding, and rock climbing.

You can check out his portfolio at this website!

Filters: 2023, Undergraduate Studies, Interior Design, Undergraduate Capstone Project