Watauga Brewing
Construction management
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Watauga Brewing Company transformed a historic downtown Johnson City building into a three-level destination featuring a brewery, full kitchen, restaurant seating, and the city’s first open-air rooftop venue. TriCon Builders delivered a complete interior and structural remodel to support brewing operations, draft systems, and multi-level dining—all while preserving the character of the existing brick and timber structure.
Location
Johnson City, TN
Category
Retail & Restaurant
Year
2020
TriCon renovated the main floor to accommodate a functioning brewery and restaurant layout. This included installing a commercial kitchen, running new plumbing and mechanical systems, and integrating a custom draft system designed for high-volume service. The design balances industrial materials with warm textures to create a comfortable, modern atmosphere.
The second level provides flexible seating options with exposed brick, original timber beams, and updated lighting that highlight the building’s character. Custom banquette seating, modern furniture, and a central gathering area give the space a refined, inviting feel that complements the brewery’s identity.
TriCon delivered one of the most ambitious elements of the project—the rooftop dining deck. Structural enhancements, waterproofing, and a new framing system allowed the team to safely add a full outdoor venue above the historic building. Shade structures, metal railings, and downtown views helped establish a unique experience unlike anything else in Johnson City at the time.
Behind the scenes, extensive infrastructure upgrades were required to support brewing operations. TriCon installed new electrical service, commercial HVAC systems, floor drains, and ventilation designed to handle the demands of a working brewery. The remodel also included major slab demolition and replacement to allow for proper drainage and equipment loads.
Watauga Brewing Company became a standout destination by combining craft brewing, dining, and rooftop views under one roof. TriCon Builders is proud to have delivered this complex, multi-level renovation that supported a bold vision for downtown revitalization and set a new standard for entertainment spaces in Johnson City.
