We are proud of our association with Gibbs Construction on this and similar projects. Through hard work, supported by years of experience and commitment, Gibbs Construction should be recognized. We look forward to our next project with Gibb Construction."
John C. Williams, AIA
Three local Baton Rouge hospitality establishments migrated to the downtown New Orleans’ dining and entertainment epicenter on the corner of O’Keefe and Poydras Street. Last In Concepts managing group acquired the former Smith & Wollensky and Maylie’s Restaurant, to become the new home of Wak-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, Happy’s Irish Pub and The Roux House.
Through the design-build contract, Gibbs revitalized 16,000 square feet of two adjoined circa-1876 historic structures to serve as three distinct businesses.
Abandoned after Hurricane Katrina, the multistory masonry building underwent a full remodel into a family-oriented gameday restaurant, pub and special event space. Crews began with demolition and replacement of the original plumbing and mechanical systems. Spaces were transformed into two new commercial restaurant kitchens. The historic building adapted complex electrical components to support the state-of-the-art sound systems and a plethora of wall-mounted flat-screen televisions.
High-end wood finishes dominating the interior aesthetics called for special carpentry skills. Walk-on’s signature bar top, crafted with reclaimed cypress wood and finished with a poured-in-place epoxy topping, and Happy’s refinished historic registered bar, have become a go-to spot for local and visiting fans alike. Self-service tabletop beer taps found in the surrounding dining booths required rough-ins for beer lines and drainage, and communication data point-of-sales stations.
The addition of a 160-linear-foot traditional wrought iron French Quarter gallery balcony, wrapping around two sides of the building, mimics the city’s Spanish Architecture.
Since this award-winning renovation, Gibbs has grown this thriving downtown New Orleans corner into a dynamic and lively entertainment hub.
Project Facts
Type
Renovation
Budget
$ 5.7 M
Size
16 sf
Owner
1009 Poydras, LLC
Architect
John C. Williams Architects, LLC
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