Yee Haw Beer Garden

The site of the Yee Haw Beer Garden is a roughly 1/2 acre parcel located near old North Knoxville neighborhoods and the redeveloping Happy Holler Historic district. The site had previously been the home of a heavy machinery rental company and most recently served as a parking lot for an adjacent brewery. However, the new owner saw potential for creating an outdoor space for the community that would revitalize the site and create opportunities for connections to future developments in a growing area of Knoxville.

The client had also purchased the adjacent brewery and rebranded that facility to fit the Yee Haw concept. The cross axis of the beer garden was organized to tie into the existing brewery patio, drawing people to the outside. The west entry of the beer garden was aligned to an existing alleyway, in hopes that future development would allow that to become a pedestrian path to connect to N. Central Street, a main artery with heavy foot-traffic.

A large outdoor bar and restroom facility created opportunities to serve a much larger number of guests. A change in grade of roughly 10’ across the site created an opportunity for amphitheater style seating. A stage and digital video wall were incorporated to create unique opportunities for entertainment.

The project began in early 2020, prior to COVID pandemic, but as the pandemic evolved, the emphasis on creating outdoor space for gathering became more desirable. As the client continued to study their needs, additional green space and shade sails were incorporated to provide a dynamic and comfortable atmosphere. Fire pits were incorporated to extend the usability of the space into the cooler months. With changes in grade, ramps were incorporated along the perimeter, defining the boundaries of the space while creating accessible routes for patrons.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Integration – the main entry to the site welcomes patrons to a dynamic space with elements of soft lighting, warm fire features and greenery to contrast the concrete and steel surfaces. The playful shade sails frame views to the main stage.

Desing for Equitable Communities – the Yee Haw Beer Garden incorporates ramps and accessible paths for patrons with disabilities and families with strollers. It is primarily a brewery, but aims to create a space for community including families with small children and even dogs. The location in a redeveloping part of Knoxville is meant to reach residents of downtown as well as those in the perimeter neighborhoods.

Design for Well-being – the project encourages the use of outdoor space and provides areas for children to play while parents socialize. As a space for community, the Yee Haw Beer Garden promotes social interaction and shared experiences through live concert events or simply sharing a beer.

Design for Change – the project was designed with future development in mind. This space is not intended to be an isolated destination. The owners intend for this space to connect to future developments through pedestrian access and hope to encourage growth in this area of Knoxville.