2-Phase Development Proposed for Brewery Site

Thinktank Design has been working on a project in conjunction with Tinworks that is slated for the former Brewery site.  The project aims to create a mix of opportunities that complement the Northeast neighborhood through the design of unique, efficient residential units, above flexible commercial spaces that build upon the increasingly vibrant commercial node that has emerged in the neighborhood over the past decade.  The design intention seeks to fully utilize the storied and beleaguered Lehrkind Brewery site by creating pedestrian-oriented spaces in which people can live and work, while containing the vehicular needs of its inhabitants in the structured parking on site.  The structured parking garage will not only fulfill the residents’ own needs, but will serve the parking demand beyond the site.  By consolidating all parking within the garage, the design aims to relieve this burden on the rest of the site by maximizing light, air, and views in the private and communal living spaces.  The garage will also provide storage for residents’ outdoor gear required for the southwest Montana lifestyle.  The site design utilizes the buildings’ massings and architectural screening to conceal and integrate the garage into the site. This plan aims to further activate the street facades of Wallace and Tamarack with over 8000 square feet flexible, commercial spaces that add to the critical mass of the growing commercial node.   The flexibility of the commercial component is meant to facilitate spaces that artists and artisans can use based on the varying size of space needed as well as providing opportunities for other commercial uses that contribute to the fabric of the neighborhood. The residential units will be for rent and include 12 row houses and 13 lofts that architecturally draw upon the eclectic character of the neighborhood.  The intent is that the residential units will serve the ‘missing middle’ as walkable and attainable alternatives in a community where these options are increasingly rare.  The design aims to broaden the mix housing currently available and proposed in the neighboring Tinworks project, while drawing upon the variety of industrial forms and materials. The goal is to create a unique place where artists, tradesmen, and entrepreneurs of all kinds can live and work while proudly celebrating its eclectic past and present.  Drawing upon the years of gathering input from the community through a variety of planning efforts, the design team is pursuing planning and entitlement for the project in the winter of 2020. If anyone has questions or comments please contact Erik at erik@thinktankarchitects.com 

Click here to download the Brewery Schematic to learn more. 

NENA will host a Virtual Townhall with Erik Nelson on January 14. Erik will also present an update during the NENA 2020 Virtual Winter Meeting on December 17. You can learn more about these events by clicking on EVENTS on the NENA Site.