Steeplejack Brewing

Project Location
Portland, OR

Owner 
Harder Day LLC

Architect 
Open Concept Architecture

Market
Hospitality

Services
Construction Management, General Contracting, Self-Perform

Region
Pacific Northwest

Swinerton Office Location
Portland, Oregon

Keywords
Brewery, Historic Preservation, Adaptive Reuse, Restaurant/Bar, Food Prep

Originally built in 1909, the historic church was transformed into a craft brewery and brewpub for local SteepleJack Brewery. The restoration preserved the church’s original architecture, including the high arching hammer trusses and numerous stain glass windows. To bring it up to modern standards, the existing floor system was removed and reframed, while the 100-year-old plaster walls were repaired. All the original old growth timber framing removed during demo was recycled and used to fabricate the booths, tables, wainscot, base, and molding. The main room features a hexagonal bar with over two dozen tables around the perimeter. Each room features its own unique layout and character. Several of the biggest rooms feature long tables equipped to host large groups, while the smaller rooms feature plush seating and a fireplace for more intimate gatherings. When combined as one, the interior marries a rustic look reminiscent of the original church, but with a clean, modern finish.