Sandy Archer serves her first customer at the new Arch’s on Emmet Street.
PHOTO BY DAVE MCNAIR

The new Arch’s Frozen Yogurt on Emmet Street opened today, an occasion both frozen yogurt fans and architecture enthusiasts can celebrate. In addition to serving up that tasty cold goodness, with all your favorite toppings, the modern two-story building with two outdoor eating balconies, ivy-covered walls (eventually), lots of glass, and a host of energy-efficient features is unlike anything else you’re likely to see on that stretch of Emmet.

Designed by BRW Architects, known for renovations of Congregation Beth Israel, the Downtown Rec Center, and the Mall side of the Water Street parking garage, the building is a model of sustainable construction and striking design, complete with environmentally friendly and energy efficient SIPS roof and wall panels that were cut to order. The two outdoor decks are on a glassy light-filled second floor, along with a couple of comfy chairs and a small battalion of toddler tables and chairs.

Unfortunately, owners Sandy and Rob Archer were too preoccupied to have a word with us, Sandy serving the first customers, Rob in the back slicing turkey, no doubt anxious and excited about their opening day. Indeed, just 15 minutes after we snapped a shot of their first customer a line had already formed at the counter.