The Whale: A Craft Beer Collective is a thoughtfully designed tasting room located in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, created for beer lovers seeking rare and globally sourced brews—affectionately known in the industry as “whales.” Our architectural team collaborated closely with the founders to design a space that balances refined simplicity with a welcoming community vibe, offering a setting that’s as memorable as the beverages being poured.
At just 1,500 square feet, the interior space maximizes its footprint through efficient planning, clean lines, and a Scandinavian-inspired design aesthetic. The design concept embraces minimalism while incorporating warm, tactile materials like light woods, soft textiles, and subtle color palettes that foster a calm and curated atmosphere. The bar itself serves as a central gathering point, framed by custom millwork and subtle lighting that enhances the experience without overwhelming the senses.
One of the standout features of The Whale is its seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Guests are invited to extend their experience beyond the tasting room by stepping onto a spacious outdoor patio, thoughtfully integrated into the design to encourage social interaction and take advantage of Asheville’s temperate climate. The patio adds valuable seating capacity and enhances the venue’s flexibility for events, casual gatherings, and community activations.
From layout to finishes, every element of the space was chosen to support the brand’s identity and elevate the customer experience. Our goal was to create an environment that feels relaxed yet elevated—where beer enthusiasts can not only discover hard-to-find brews but also feel truly at home.
This project reflects our firm’s expertise in hospitality design, brand-driven architecture, and creating small commercial spaces that make a big impact.
