Erika Winters, Inc.: July 2013

The complete remodeling of the gas station and car wash at Las Posas, Camarillo, Ca.

The challenge of this project involved recasting a building constructed in 1998 as an Italian Villa, as a departure from its previous curvy and modern-looking interior.

We wanted to create an inviting atmosphere for customers: while waiting for their car to be washed, visitors can relax in the café as they check their emails, read a book or simply watch the world go by.

The concept is to transport visitors to a comfortable Italian Villa, offering them a peaceful moment in their day and a chance to enjoy themselves.

On one side of the mini-mart we created a terraced area with a rural feel: we did landscaping work, created flower beds, installed two fountains and added some tables equipped with parasols.

The materials included marble for the restrooms and counter tops of the café and dining areas; veneer slate stone for the walls in the refrigeration area, indoor and outdoor gardened areas, and for the outside pedestrian zone; ceramic tiles for the floors in the market; and faux paint finishes for the walls inside the market and outside the two buildings, with warm and vibrant colors.

We also used faux paint finishes in the restrooms, in more sober colors, alongside the impressive granite and marble features. The interior and exterior lighting fixtures were very important in order to create just the right ambience.

We used fun and attractive graphics in the Bellini area and the waiting area. The food and drink court—serving gourmet sandwiches and coffee, gelatos and desserts—was designed down to the very last detail. Customers can enjoy all this and more while waiting for their car to be washed and waxed.

We completed this remodeling project in partnership with Heidi Johnson (graphic design) and Channel Development (construction); the architect Luis F Herrera Project Manager and Bijan Javaherian Supervisor.

Erika Winters® Design managed the project and advised on color schemes, decoration, lighting, bathroom design, choice of materials, etc.