The Lakefront Cafe is located on the northeast corner of the Memorial Union, on the first floor overlooking Lake Mendota. Strang completed a study to determine how best to resolve the Lakefront's operations to profitability, and designed the renovation of this space. Following an extensive re-design by Strang, Inc., the 12,000-s.f. Lakefront Cafe has been completely rejuvenated. The facility introduces several exciting dining concepts that are new to the Union, including a salad bar, wraps, espresso, pizza and stir fry. The space also will be used for conferences and receptions for up to 370 people.

The cafe overlooks the Union Terrace and offers a spectacular view of Lake Mendota. A new terrazzo floor inlaid with brass images, mother-of-pearl and colored glass pulls you through a new, sinuous hallway that connects the main Union lobby with the Terrace. Structural columns are wrapped in wood, symbolic of trees and nature. The design playfully incorporates visual nods to water and waves, sunshine, and the legendary Union sunburst chairs.

The new, upscale marketplace-style ambience of the food service area features brightly colored ceramic tile, glass block and curved ceiling treatments. In the dining areas, students and visitors enjoy an airy, Art Deco-inspired atmosphere with a variety of comfortable seating options, dramatic lighting, and ample sunlight that pours through a wall of windows. The space also includes wireless internet access, audio-visual technology for presentations, and a dance floor.