Ants on a Log Café & Valley Rock Gym

Commercial, Restaurant, Major Remodel, Deck & Exterior

The Perfect Café for a Local Rock Climbing Gym

The building known as the Tibet House sat vacant for years in downtown Corvallis until a group of adventurous friends saw a way to create a place for the community. The vision included an indoor rock climbing gym, a yoga studio, and a healthy café. The owners approached us to remodel the full exterior and design the new café. We used T&G boards from various species from Starker Forest Lumber, Luxury Vinyl Plank floor, bright quartz counters, and fun pops of color to mimic elements of the outdoor spaces that surround Corvallis. The upper portion was covered in 2 different colors of siding from Nakamoto & the lower portion was covered in Cultured Stacked Stone to break up the exterior and create texture. The east and south-facing awnings showcase a beautiful T&G wood ceiling, highlighting the new signage for the café and gym. The finished design is a transformation inside and out.

“As a long-time Corvallis resident, it was a joy to design a project that not only benefited my immediate clients but also the community as a whole. Working so closely with Ants on a Log Cafe and the Valley Rock Gym, it was clear that they are passionate about sustainability and supporting other local businesses. ”

Sarah Maisel, Senior Designer

Project Details

Locally Sourced Materials

Using T&G chinkapin boards along the entry and maple boards at the front counter from Starker Forest Lumber gave the café a personal touch. Mixing the various grains and wood species creates a beautiful and natural texture that looks amazing. It's a warm and inviting space with a unique view.

Thoughtful Exterior Design

To break up the exterior and create texture, the upper portion was covered in 2 different finishes of siding from Nakamoto with the lower portion covered in Cultured Stacked Stone. The east and south-facing awnings showcase a beautiful T&G wood ceiling to highlight the new signage for the café and gym.

Connection to the Rock Climbing Gym

These large windows at the bar seating area allow customers of Ants on a Log Cafe to enjoy viewing the climbers of the new rock climbing gym and plan out new climbing routes.