The Roost – Sidewalk Dining

Lawrence, KS (2013; 2023)

920 Massachusetts Street

920 Massachusetts Street is historically known as the C.H. Hunsinger Garage Building. The 5,850 square-foot building was constructed in the 1860s and altered in 1919. The two-story brick facade building has a restaurant on the first floor and offices occupying the second. It was initially used for auto sales, but established as a restaurant in 1997. In 2013, after substantial renovation, The Roost opened as a place for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

In 2023, Hernly assisted with the sidewalk hospitality enclosure. The 140 square-foot dining area has seating for 15.  A 3-foot high steel railing was constructed to separate the area from the sidewalk. An additional parklet outdoor dining space was added, with the sidewalk separating the hospitality spaces. Picnic tables were added in the new area, and the steel railing enclosing is similar. 

Lawrence’s Downtown Historic District comprises the core of the historic central business district of Lawrence, Kansas. Buildings within the district are associated with various periods of Lawrence’s development and were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in July, 2004. The Roost is locally owned, founded by Manda & Sean Jolly and Ken Pingleton. Manda worked at the building’s previous restaurant for 11 years; when she met Sean, she decided to open her own restaurant. The Roost serves an assortment of breakfast and lunch foods, as well as specialty coffee and cocktails. 

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