Café Zing

Transforming a Beloved Cambridge Gathering Space

Walker Development relocated and built-out Café Zing, a beloved eclectic coffee shop in Porter Square, while allowing the business to remain operational throughout construction. The 4,392 SF project included a 1,657 SF tenant fit-out for Café Zing and a 2,354 SF core-and-shell white box space for a future tenant. Working within an occupied mixed-use building with active tenants required carefully coordination for all phases of work. Café Zing features a custom coffee bar, back-of-house support spaces, staff offices and storage, two accessible restrooms, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and sprinkler systems. 

Design elements included a vibrant seating and gathering area with custom finishes, suspended lighting, owner-curated artwork, and enhanced indoor-outdoor connectivity. Structural modifications were completed to accommodate the new entrance and interior renovations, including a service window that allowed café operations to continue during construction. The storefront entrance was upgraded with aluminum and masonry detailing, granite pavers, and infrastructure upgrades to support both the café and future tenant space, delivering a thoughtful, community-focused environment while positioning the property for long-term success.