Our architecture firm had the opportunity to work with Nine Mile, a beloved local restaurant known for its Caribbean-inspired pasta and rice dishes, on a strategic restaurant expansion project in Asheville, North Carolina. A staple in the local dining scene, Nine Mile needed to grow its footprint to better serve its loyal customer base and improve both front-of-house and back-of-house functionality.
The project involved the adaptive reuse of the adjacent commercial space next door to the restaurant’s original location. The goal was to seamlessly integrate the two spaces while preserving the vibrant character and welcoming atmosphere that guests associate with Nine Mile. Our scope of work included the addition of a new waiting lounge, a significant bar expansion, and a substantial increase in kitchen and storage capacity.
The new waiting lounge was designed to enhance the guest experience by providing a comfortable, visually cohesive space for patrons during peak hours. Drawing on the restaurant’s Caribbean influence, the lounge features warm tones, tropical accents, and natural materials that align with Nine Mile’s brand identity.
The bar area was expanded and redesigned to improve flow and increase seating, allowing the restaurant to serve more guests while enhancing the overall ambiance. With custom millwork, ambient lighting, and carefully selected finishes, the bar serves as a central gathering point and visual anchor within the space.
Behind the scenes, we reconfigured and enlarged the commercial kitchen and storage areas to support increased capacity and streamline operations. Upgraded equipment, improved circulation, and enhanced staff workflow were all top priorities during the design phase.
This project highlights our firm’s expertise in restaurant architecture, hospitality-driven design, and creative commercial expansions. By thoughtfully merging two spaces into one cohesive environment, we helped Nine Mile continue to grow while maintaining the charm and flavor that make it a community favorite.
