Crafting a Distinct Café Interior with ECO Benchtops

Coffee shop design is all about choosing materials that look good, last long, and are good for the environment. McIver’s Coffee & Tea Merchants in Brunswick, a well-known spot for coffee and tea lovers, recently updated their café interior with ECO Benchtops’ Outback Earth. This Australian-made, eco-friendly benchtop adds warmth and character to the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel comfortable staying longer.

Why McIver’s Chose Outback Earth

Catherine Underhill, the owner behind this renovation, wanted a countertop that reflected quality craftsmanship and sustainability. Outback Earth, previously called Dubai Storm, is made from recycled wine and beer bottles without any added pigments. This means every slab is unique, with no two pieces looking exactly the same. This fits perfectly with McIver’s handcrafted approach, making the benchtop a great match for the shop’s personality and originality.

The natural tones of the benchtop go well with McIver’s exposed brick walls and warm wooden accents, blending seamlessly into the coffee shop’s interior design. The combination of textures and colours helps create a cozy and inviting space where customers can enjoy their coffee and tea.

Sustainable Materials in Coffee Shop Design

Sustainability is becoming a major trend in coffee shop design. ECO Benchtops are not only environmentally friendly but also strong and easy to maintain—perfect for a busy café. In addition to Outback Earth, Catherine also admired another option called Antarctic Mist, which is made from recycled windows and doors. Both choices reflect her commitment to using sustainable materials while still achieving a stylish and modern look.

By using recycled materials, McIver’s is helping to reduce waste while also offering a visually stunning café interior. This approach appeals to customers who appreciate thoughtful design and eco-conscious choices.

Project Info

Colour: Outback Earth

Project: McIver's Coffee & Tea

Coffee Shop Design at McIver's Coffee & Tea with ECO Sustainable benchtops
ECO Benchtops installation at McIver's Coffee & Tea

Creating an Engaging Customer Experience

Beyond just looking good, the benchtop’s unique appearance plays a role in the overall customer experience. The mix of colours and textures catches people’s attention, making the space feel lively and engaging. Paired with design elements like local artist-inspired décor, comfortable seating, and a selection of house blends, McIver’s has created a space where people want to relax, work, or meet with friends.

A well-designed coffee shop keeps customers coming back. The combination of thoughtful shop design ideas, high-quality materials, and a welcoming environment makes a big difference in how people feel when they visit.

The Final Touch: A Coffee Shop That Stands Out

McIver’s Coffee & Tea Merchants is a great example of how a coffee shop can blend sustainability and great design without losing its charm. With ECO Benchtops’ Outback Earth as a centerpiece, the shop stands out visually while also supporting Australian-made, environmentally friendly products. This project proves that a coffee shop can be both stylish and functional while making a positive impact on the environment.

For more inspiration on coffee shop design ideas, visit full range of sustainable benchtops here.

Cafe shop design with ECO Sustainable benchtops
Cafe shop design with ECO Sustainable benchtops Outback Earth
ECO Benchtops installation at McIver's Coffee & Tea