After observing this time I had quite a bit more notes than my first observation. My findings were a lot more specific and detailed. I was trying to just stick to observing the flow and the layout of Starbucks, but I couldn't! I kept taking notes on all the people I was noticing.
I observed around 4:00 and it wasn't crazy packed but there were definatly some studious people. Well, I don't know how studious they were being, but they sure did look like it. They were sitting at their desks staring at their computers, books and papers. Funny, because not one of the people i saw studying actually had a starbucks coffee. It seemed they were there specifically to finish up work and head into the weekend full force! Although there were people studying, the atmosphere around the place felt a little more relaxed. The starbucks baristas made it feel more relaxed because they were laughing and having fun. They were being quite a bit louder than they probably should have been but I didn't mind. I wasn't trying to study though.
I have been to the student center Starbucks and I never thought much about the layout. But after studying it I think I have a better understanding of it's architechture. It located upstairs and over looks the tables below. The huge glass windows overlooking the pond also provide scenery. I believe this area is called a mezzanine. Beginning at the 3 sets of double doors I walked past the computer lab, quiet as usual, then past the crafting table decorated with campus brochures. I continued toward 4 comfy chairs and a small couch. Then, I walked through the actual starbucks. This entailed the small counter with milk, cream and sugar, the window of delectable desserts, a cash register, a couple friendly baristas and the table where you can pick up your drink. Then it's either around the corner to head towards the study rooms, down the stairs to visit the bookstore, or just simply off to the comfy chairs (which is my favorite area!!)
This may sound silly, but this is my take on the layout. The flow is very relaxed and kind of curvy if that makes sense. Yet, the chairs are aligned all in a straight row against the edge of the mezzanine. It's almost as if the flow of the place is meant to be relaxed but each desk aligned in a severe fashion is strictly meant for studying! The comfy chairs and couches are added for a destination of relief and conversation between friends of all ages. Like is said before and I'll repeat, this place is multidimensional!! I am noticing things that I never have noticed before. It's sort of interesting.
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You did a good job on describing the atmosphere within the Starbucks. I have been to the Starbucks in the student center and many other places and it always seems like the people working there are the most cheerful people I have ever met.
I also find it odd that all the people that surrounded the Starbucks were just sitting at their computers not drinking anything. It just seems to me that if I am going to go upstairs and sit right beside a Starbucks, I would get something for myself as I did my homework.
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