In 2016, Dancing Gnome Brewery opened its first brewery and taproom in the Sharpsburg, along the Allegheny River. Within five years, Dancing Gnome required a larger facility, and purchased a windowless, pre-engineered “Butler Building" within walking distance of its first taproom. The Owner required the building to be transformed into a brewery to produce award-winning products and a taproom to attract patrons and contribute to the Sharpsburg community.

The design goal was to adapt and reuse the building and take inspiration from the history of the town’s industrial past and the former Pennsylvania Main Line Canal which had once passed through the building’s site almost 200 years ago and was an important landmark of Sharpsburg. The new design oriented the entrance and the floorplan of the building’s new interior along what was once Ferry Street, an important thoroughfare for goods to be taken to and from the Pennsylvania Canal during its use (1834 – 1943).

By taking away the exterior skin of the building, and exposing the long-span structure, the design increased the opportunity for natural light and created an interesting composition that could be seen from Main Street. A double-story window wall that provides natural light and views to and from the taproom was created and skylights in the addition were oriented South to allow for additional natural light. The glass garage doors installed along the entrance wall allow visitors in the taproom and on the patio to interact and move safely and barrier-free between the spaces. Signage and ADA accessibility are also included.

The state-of-the art brewery space is adjacent to the taproom, separated by a glass wall so that guests can watch production. The new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems were designed to be exposed for easy repair and upgrades. The large open space is also conducive to alternative uses of the space in the future.

Though located on a former industrial site, Dancing Gnome Brewery now offers a comfortable, walkable, vibrant and welcoming place where guests – from Sharpsburg and those visiting the neighborhood – can enjoy Dancing Gnome beer and interact with one another.