Wise Acre Eatery

Overview:

Originally a 1940s gas station turned yogurt shop, Wise Acre Eatery was reimagined as a farm-to-table dining spot. The design preserved the building’s historic charm while introducing modern dining features.

Project Goals:

Convert a yogurt shop into a welcoming restaurant with a farm-driven concept
Honor the structure’s roots as a gas station from the 1940s
Integrate reclaimed materials to highlight the eatery’s commitment to sustainability

Design and Implementation:

Layout/Structural Changes:
A counter service setup was added along one side, with the kitchen on the opposite side. A wine bar was placed at the rear, maintaining a cozy flow for customers.
Materials and Finishes:
- Original metal panels and garage doors were retained, keeping the vintage character.
- Wood reclaimed from a Mississippi River boardwalk was used for the bar, connecting local history to the interior.
- Earth taken from the restaurant’s own farm was formed into a low bar wall, adding a personal touch and echoing the farm-to-table philosophy.
- Industrial lighting fixtures with protective cages were chosen to match the gas station feel.
- Floors were refinished to a clean concrete surface, staying true to the building’s origins.
Key Elements:
- A green wall with live plants adds freshness and visually contrasts the industrial features.
- Large windows and preserved garage doors introduce generous daylight.
- Simple seating aligns with the understated, repurposed aesthetic of the space.

Outcome:

Maintaining the building’s authentic character while adding new functions required precise coordination among design teams. Blending historical elements, reclaimed materials, and modern fixtures demanded attention to detail.

Outcome:

Wise Acre Eatery now merges farm influences with the look and feel of a vintage gas station. Guests experience an inviting, heritage-rich atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the restaurant’s locally sourced menu and spirited sense of place.