Carl's Jr. Debuts New Restaurant Building Prototype

Carl's Jr. recently unveiled a distinct new look for its latest Restaurant in Downey, Calif. Located at 7200 Firestone Blvd., half a mile east of the 710 freeway, the new location is the first of the concept's restaurants to feature the new architectural style.

"Carl's Jr. has raised the bar on quick-service restaurant building design and the entire fast-food dining experience," said Renea Hutchings, executive vice president of development and Franchise sales for CKE Restaurants, Inc., Carl's Jr.'s parent company. "This is not your typical Fast Food restaurant, and will reinforce the fact that the food will not be typical but instead be 'best in class.'"

The new building form was derived from the goal to improve the drive-thru experience and features dynamic lighting, extensive landscaping, visibility into the dining room, and a fluid traffic flow.

"This new design evokes the image of a building in motion," said Hutchings. "The fluid design and sleek shape of the building says 'Look at me, I'm new, I'm different and I'm fun.'"

The interior of the restaurant has an open, contemporary feel and features a unique color scheme. The soaring roof features exposed trusses and is the backdrop for the lighting and sound systems. Two canopy wings project through the storefront and reflect natural daylight into the dining area. Along with the skylights, this passive lighting system will provide a large portion of the lighting for daytime use.

Whenever possible, depending on space constraints or city restrictions, the new prototype will be an option for all future Carl's Jr. restaurants. Also, the company has plans to remodel the interior of up to 40 existing Carl's Jr. restaurants this year to reflect the new design.

CKE Restaurants, Inc., through its subsidiaries, franchisees and licensees, operates nearly 3,400 restaurants in 43 states and 14 countries. CKE's brands -- including Carl's Jr., Hardee's, Green Burrito and La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grills -- are the quality and taste leaders in the burger, Mexican quick-service and fast-casual restaurant industry segments.