Abita Brewery and Taproom New Orleans
Tchoupitoulas Street
Client: Abita Brewing Company
Role: Architecture, Interior Design, Pre-Design, Furnishing Specification, Procurement, Purchasing, Installation
Scope: Construction of a new 7.5 barrel brewery and taproom in an existing warehouse.
Size: 6,750 sq. ft.
Budget: $2,000,000
Status: Complete 2025
Collaborators: DM Steib, Arch Builders, Synergy Consulting Engineers, Batture
Louisiana-based establishment offers a tasteful addition to the newly coined “Brewery Row”
For nearly four decades, Abita Brewing Company has played a defining role in Louisiana’s cultural landscape—first founded in Abita Springs in 1986 as the South’s original craft brewery. In 2022, Studio West was selected to help bring Abita closer to the heart of the city by leading the architecture and interior design for its second location, located along the growing Brewery Row corridor in New Orleans’ Irish Channel.
An underutilized metal warehouse at the corner of Tchoupitoulas and First Streets was envisioned not only as a working brewhouse and tasting room but as an open, welcoming space for gathering, community, and celebration. Designed to host events year-round, the project seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor environments to create an authentic atmosphere bridging hospitality and connection.
Studio West worked closely with Abita and the construction team to lead a sustainable transformation of the structure, retaining its original slab, roof, and walls while enhancing the building envelope to meet modern energy standards. A suspended brewing system opens up the main floor, offering guests an interactive viewing into the makings of the brewing process—symbolizing Abita’s commitment and desire to celebrate the art and unique engagement of such a novel craft.
Inside, the architecture draws directly from Abita’s visual identity. A Purple Haze ceiling, Blueberry Wheat–inspired bar, and warm wood details all reference the brand’s signature brews and original roots. Together, these elements offer a new kind of neighborhood taproom—one that reflects the company’s past while building a lasting presence in New Orleans.
