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Founded in 1977. Almost 50 years of expertise. 4,500+ successful projects. Your trusted partner in foodservice design.
Built on Experience, Driven by Results
Since 1977, Foodesign Associates has partnered with architects, operators, and developers to design foodservice facilities that work. Efficiently, sustainably, and profitably. With almost five decades of experience and more than 4,500 completed projects across 16 sectors, we bring a depth of knowledge that only comes from doing the work, day in and day out, for nearly half a century.
From our Charlotte, North Carolina headquarters, we serve clients nationwide. We deliver the same commitment to excellence whether we’re designing a university dining hall, a correctional facility kitchen, a healthcare foodservice operation, or a commercial laundry facility. Our clients return to us not because of flashy presentations, but because our designs deliver measurable operational improvements and lasting value.
How We Work
We understand that architects need more than equipment recommendations. They need a true design partner who can integrate seamlessly into their process, speak their language, and protect their client’s interests. That’s why architects across the country have chosen us as their go-to foodservice consultant for almost 50 years.
As a design-only firm, we don’t sell equipment. This means every recommendation we make is based solely on what’s best for your project, not what’s best for our margins. We specify equipment from the manufacturers that meet your project’s specific needs for performance, longevity, and budget. This objectivity is fundamental to who we are and how we’ve earned the trust of the architectural community.
Our role is to be your advocate. We bring specialized expertise in foodservice and laundry design while respecting your vision and your client relationships. We work quietly behind the scenes, making sure every detail is right so you can deliver projects that exceed expectations.
Our Philosophy
Great foodservice design isn’t about creating spectacle. It’s about creating spaces where operations run smoothly, staff work efficiently, and your investment generates returns. When a kitchen functions beautifully, it is beautiful. The same holds true for laundry facilities: efficiency and durability create their own elegance.
We believe in the power of careful listening, thorough analysis, and practical solutions grounded in real-world operational experience. We believe in documentation that prevents costly change orders. We believe in showing up during construction to make sure the installation matches the design. And we believe in building relationships that last decades, not just through a single project.
Sunny Barja leads Foodesign Associates as President, guiding the firm’s strategic direction and commitment to design-only foodservice consulting.
Ashley Gaines leads Foodesign with a focus on client relationships and project excellence. Her deep understanding of the architectural process and commitment to operational success means every project receives meticulous attention. Ashley’s leadership has been instrumental in building the firm’s reputation as a trusted partner to architects nationwide.
With decades of experience in foodservice consulting, John Barja provides invaluable technical oversight and project leadership. His expertise in complex project management, engineering coordination, and regulatory compliance has guided hundreds of successful projects from concept through completion. John’s commitment to precision and his collaborative approach make him a valued partner to both architects and operators.
Sue-Haydee Toala brings a unique combination of interior design expertise and deep operational knowledge to every project. Her background allows her to create spaces that are both aesthetically refined and highly functional. Sue-Haydee’s attention to detail and understanding of how design impacts daily operations means that form and function work in harmony.
Ready to discuss your next project? Contact us today to learn how our team can help you achieve your vision.