Guided by work done on the Gunter Hotel Renovation, brand standards from Paris Baguette, neighborhood rhythms, and the building’s historic context, SCAAA developed a design strategy that converts a once inward-facing space into an active public destination for both hotel guests and locals.

Prior to SCAAA’s intervention, the space functioned as a secondary reception area with limited visibility, minimal street presence, and little reason for non-guests to enter. Its layout and infrastructure were not suited for food service or lingering, reinforcing its role as a transitional, underutilized zone within the hotel. Our renovation reoriented the space toward the sidewalk, prioritizing transparency, circulation, and operational clarity to support a high-volume bakery and café environment.

The new plan organizes the bakery around a clear customer journey—from entry and display to ordering, seating, and exit—while carefully integrating back-of-house functions required for baking, storage, and staff operations. Glazing and lighting were introduced to showcase the baking and display areas, creating visual exchange between the interior and the street and drawing passersby into the space. Seating is arranged to accommodate quick visits, informal meetings, and longer stays, allowing the bakery to operate as an extension of both the hotel lobby and the public realm.

Material selections balance Paris Baguette’s brand identity with the architectural character of the Gunter Hotel. Warm finishes, durable surfaces, and refined detailing create a welcoming atmosphere while accommodating the demands of a commercial kitchen and high daily turnover. The result is a space that feels contemporary and approachable, yet grounded in its historic setting.

The Paris Baguette at the Gunter Hotel reclaims underutilized interior space and converts it into an active, revenue-generating amenity that strengthens the hotel’s connection to downtown San Antonio. Through strategic planning and thoughtful renovation, SCAAA helped transform a former reception area into a vibrant neighborhood bakery that serves as a daily gathering place for guests and the surrounding community.