Ponto Retail

Carlsbad, CA

Ponto is a prime example of how deft design engages with context and community to create memorable experiences. This undeveloped street corner, right next to neighborhoods, trails, wildlife and Carlsbad State Beach, already had so much to offer; the right design would be positioned to become a successful and beloved addition to the neighborhood. Even a seemingly perfect site like this still has its challenges: much of the site is covered in coastal sage scrub, the habitat for a threatened population of California gnatcatchers. KTGY’s designers carefully crafted this development around such precious habitat, preserving it on behalf of the community.

Client: H.G. Fenton Company
Expertise: Architecture
Sector: Retail
Typology: Landlord Shell
Status: On the Boards

New paths give the scrub habitat a wide berth before linking up to existing multi-use trails. Gathering points with chairs and firepits dot the paths and look out to the water. Rising out of the bluff are Ponto’s two main structures which house retail and restaurant space in an eye-catching design using contextually natural forms and colors. Beachside amenities like gathering spaces, outdoor showers and bike racks serve the audience already using this space, giving them just another reason to stop in. The second-story patio and unique shape of the building, with its aluminum louvers and bright mural contrasting sand-toned siding, is an irresistible draw that turns these visitors into loyal locals. Through good design and irresistible amenities, Ponto taps into deep reserves of goodwill and affection from an engaged community of outdoor enthusiasts, athletes and beachgoers.