Boom Island Brewing - Studio M Architects

Boom Island Brewing Expansion in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Overview:

Boom Island Brewing approached Studio M Architects to create a new, larger home for their expanding brewery. Transitioning from a small shop in downtown Minneapolis to a spacious industrial office space, they aimed to significantly increase their brewing capacity—from a three-barrel system to a 20-barrel system. The project focused on designing an open and inviting taproom that accommodates large gatherings while providing intimate spaces for guests.

Project Goals:

Expand the brewing facility from a three-barrel system to a 20-barrel system.
Design an open seating area suitable for large groups without creating numerous small spaces.
Incorporate private dining areas and booth seating to offer intimate spaces within the larger layout.
Utilize reclaimed timbers from the Minneapolis riverfront in the design.
Integrate the brewery’s signage and branding into the taproom.
Develop a flexible menu display system for their beers.
Separate the brewery facility from the taproom area using a wall of barrels that showcases their barrel-aged beers.

Design and Implementation:

Layout and Features:
- Created one large open seating area to maintain the open feel preferred by the client.
- Included a private dining area and booth seating to provide guests with more intimate settings.
- Separated the brewing facility from the taproom area with a wall of barrels, highlighting their focus on barrel-aged beers, including sours.
Materials and Finishes:
- Collected large timbers previously used along the river in Minneapolis, historically utilized to assist with barges and boats.
- Used these reclaimed timbers to create a ceiling element over the bar and for the bar die wall, incorporating end-grain pieces.
- Constructed the bar top from real wood with an epoxy overlay for durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Added a simple iron foot rail to the bar area for functionality.
Branding and Signage:
- Integrated Boom Island Brewing’s signage and branding throughout the design.
- Designed a flexible beer menu system where each brew has its own individual board. Staff can easily remove or replace these boards as beers run out or rotate, allowing for effortless updates.

Outcome:

The new Boom Island Brewing facility successfully expanded their brewing operations and provided a welcoming taproom that embodies their vision. The open layout accommodates large gatherings while offering intimate seating options. The use of reclaimed river timbers adds unique character to the space, connecting it to Minneapolis’s history. The wall of barrels not only serves as a physical separation between the brewery and taproom but also showcases their emphasis on barrel-aged beers. The flexible menu display system enhances operational efficiency and customer experience. Overall, the project met the client’s goals, creating a space that patrons enjoy and remember.