A Southern Restaurant That Blends History and Hospitality
UG Group (formerly 2WR+ Partners) designed 11th and Bay, a Southern restaurant that breathes new life into a 19th-century basement. This project highlights the beauty of restoration, merging industrial history with modern comfort. As a result, guests experience a warm and inviting space that reflects the authenticity of the South.
Preserving Industrial Character in a Southern Dining Space
From the start, our team focused on maintaining the building’s original charm. We carefully cleaned and stabilized existing plank flooring, brick walls, and exposed framework to preserve its historic character. Additionally, simple lighting, acoustical controls, and thoughtfully selected furniture enhance the space without overshadowing its raw, industrial aesthetic.
Due to elevation variations, we extended the front entrance westward, framing it with board-formed concrete walls. Meanwhile, a landscaped planter with a deciduous tree provides natural shade for guests waiting to dine. This thoughtful integration of old and new elements ensures the space remains both functional and visually compelling.
Reimagining the Loading Dock as a Southern-Inspired Outdoor Experience
To further enhance the Southern restaurant experience, we transformed the former loading dock into a welcoming porch. This outdoor space allows patrons to enjoy the ambiance in a fresh and engaging way. Furthermore, we repurposed salvaged materials found in the building to reinforce the project’s sustainability.
- An old steel sliding door became a striking entryway backdrop.
- Reclaimed doors, galvanized sheet metal, and conduit were integrated into the bar’s design.
- Multi-colored wood panels now form restroom partitions, adding character to functional spaces.
- Wire mesh structures display artwork, enhancing the rustic aesthetic.
- A heavy timber beam, once discarded, was reimagined as a communal bench.
Southern Restaurant Design That Honors the Past
To differentiate the kitchen and restrooms, we used simple painted drywall partitions. These walls serve as a backdrop for curated images that celebrate the agrarian South. Similarly, just as the Southern restaurant reinvents traditional flavors, UG Group’s design reinterprets historical elements in a fresh and meaningful way.