Loco Burro Knoxville

Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina and Tequila Bar is the second location of the concept, originally started in 2010 in Gatlinburg, TN. The goal of the new location was to provide a more sophisticated version of the original restaurant, with the intent of creating a fun and elevated dining experience in Knoxville’s West Town Mall. The new space was more than double the size of the original location, allowing the concept to accommodate an increased number of patrons throughout the indoor-outdoor dining on the main level and the expansive rooftop bar. To support a larger, local customer base, as well as increased demand for catering and carry-out orders, the kitchen was more than doubled and included dual-sided expo lines and a service elevator for efficiency.

Driven by the excitement of bringing the rooftop bar experience from Gatlinburg to West Knoxville, the owner wanted patrons to feel immediately welcome to climb to the second story and join the party. Working in conjunction with The Johnson Studio (Atlanta, GA), we organized the floor plan around a primary circulation core, featuring an open stair and customer elevator. We worked with local steel fabricators to develop a patinaed metal finish to wrap the primary stair and other customized metal features. Utilizing the existing structural frame of the retail shell, additional steel was “stubbed” above the existing mall roof, elevating sightlines and adding an opportunity for increased verticality to the blank canvas of the West Town Mall façade. The exterior design of the restaurant incorporated vibrant splashes of color, building on the concepts developed on the interior and drawing the eye of the community. Exterior materials included a dynamic and detailed custom brick pattern, molded and scored EIFS, and warm tones from stained wood and authentic breeze block. A portion of the rooftop bar was lowered and incorporated open glass railing, inviting dining patrons to come experience the rooftop. Exterior lighting highlights every architectural feature and creates a festive environment that carries patrons late into the evening.

On the main level, a bar with dual-sided service to the main dining area was featured near the entrance with an illuminated display of the varied tequila selections. The adjacent party room provided flexibility for additional dining and small events. With both an exterior entrance and interior entry form the primary mall corridor, accordion-style overhead doors were incorporated, allowing for fresh air and open sightlines into the space. Opening the exterior facing wall also allowed for increased natural light, highlighting the colorful interior palette.

Building on The Johnson Studio’s interior design concept, we also worked with local artists to design a custom mural wall and playful graphics within the space, in addition to final decorative touches with hand-made products sourced from Mexican artisans. The renovation has created an exceptional guest experience through its playful and elevated environment while adding new energy to the traditional suburban mall landscape.

Framework for Design Excellence