Strawberry Alley Ale Works

Lyle Cook Martin Architects

In late 2016, my close friend and long-time client bought a dilapidated, run-down circa 1880’s warehouse building adjacent to City Hall in an area of downtown in need of serious help. He enlisted a group of qualified contractors and myself to help him fulfill his dream.

The first six months were spent strengthening, straightening, and patching the old structure back to what we called “ground zero”. The next six months were spent transforming the old building into Clarksville’s top destination spot.

The rehabilitation of this three story, 140 (+-) year old, former factory building was achieved utilizing existing aesthetics and structural systems with modern upgrades. The existing building structure consisted of heavy timber frame with locally cut joists, rafters and framing, enclosed by a solid multi-wyth masonry perimeter wall system. All systems were reinforced with careful attention to preservation while also meeting current code requirements.

The development of this project required working closely with Economic Development entities, City and County Mayor's offices and Downtown Advocacy groups to build consensus concepts.

The project was one of the primary leaders of our current Downtown Renaissance and this restaurant is a significant catalyst that promoted many others to follow. Multiple property transfers, renovations, and new projects have followed in this historic Downtown area sparking approx. $190 Million of new retail, entertainment and hotel construction adding to the list of top destination spots in Tennessee's 5th largest city.

Almost a year to the date of grand opening of the first phase, my dear friend passed away. This was his crown jewel and final legacy to his family, his community, and to our historic downtown.