Dixie Brewery
Client
Dixie Brewery
Partners
Woodward Design+Build
Location
New Orleans, Louisiana
Services
Interior Design, Branding Development, Historical Preservation
CDI Solutions proudly undertook an extensive interior design project for Dixie Brewery, a historic icon in New Orleans' brewing culture. Our design approach carefully balanced the rich heritage of this storied craft brewery with modern functionality, ensuring that the space not only honors its past but also meets contemporary standards for an engaging visitor experience.
The design encompassed two distinct floors, each tailored to meet the needs of the brewery’s diverse operations. On the first floor, the taproom, bar, eatery, retail space, and kitchen blend seamlessly into an inviting environment for guests. CDI Solutions crafted a space plan that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the brewing process while enjoying the amenities the brewery offers. Thoughtful sightlines were incorporated to guide guests through the space, drawing attention to key features such as the brewing area, which remains visible from the taproom.
A standout feature of the first floor is the cypress taproom bar, crafted from a repurposed oak fermenting barrel, offering a nod to Dixie Brewery’s history. This one-of-a-kind piece greets visitors as they enter the facility, setting the tone for the blend of old-world craftsmanship and modern design. Above the bar, we restored an original neon brewery sign, a historical artifact likely from the late 1930s. This neon glow not only enhances the bar’s nostalgic ambiance but also ties the brewery's rich past to its present-day operations. The bar itself is a perfect fusion of historical preservation and contemporary design, complemented by a mix of vintage furnishings and new installations to create a welcoming, timeless aesthetic.
The expansive atrium housing the taproom required a thoughtful lighting plan. CDI Solutions opted for a mix of warehouse-style pendant fixtures, wall-mounted sconces to address the high ceilings, and custom large-format lighting over the dining area. This deliberate mix of lighting styles provides both functional illumination and aesthetic appeal, setting the perfect atmosphere for guests to enjoy their time at the brewery.
An adjacent eatery within the taproom offers a counter-service dining experience, operated by a renowned local New Orleans caterer. CDI Solutions designed the eatery to integrate seamlessly with the taproom’s overall vibe, using a combination of brick, wood, and exposed HVAC ductwork to echo the building’s warehouse origins. The result is a space that feels both authentic to the building's history and inviting to modern patrons.
Another focal point of the first floor is the brewery’s museum, which showcases over 800 artifacts detailing the history of beer in New Orleans, with a special emphasis on Dixie Brewery’s own 112-year story. CDI Solutions created custom vinyl wall graphics and murals to vividly depict this journey through time, adding a visually engaging layer to the educational experience. The museum allows visitors to immerse themselves in the brewery's deep roots while connecting with the broader history of beer in the region.
The first floor also includes retail space near the entrance, designed to attract visitors looking to purchase memorabilia. The retail area is bright and functional, featuring well-lit displays that highlight the brewery’s rich product offerings and history.
On the second floor, CDI Solutions designed a series of spaces with distinct purposes, including event spaces, conference rooms, administrative offices, lab areas, and restrooms. Guests can also visit the observation area, which provides an elevated view of the craft brewing process below. Materials and finishes throughout the second floor were chosen with both safety and aesthetics in mind, meeting ADA guidelines and providing slip-resistant surfaces for guests.
Custom millwork in both the eatery and kitchen reflect CDI Solutions’ commitment to quality, blending functionality with visual appeal. These bespoke elements enhance the overall design while ensuring durability in high-traffic areas, key for the brewery’s long-term use.
The Dixie Brewery project is a testament to CDI Solutions’ ability to marry historical preservation with modern design. By thoughtfully selecting materials, finishes, and furnishings, we created a space that pays homage to the brewery’s history while offering a contemporary, functional environment. The result is a vibrant facility that celebrates the past, embraces the present, and paves the way for a dynamic future in New Orleans’ brewing scene.
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