THE DETAILS

This property, originally the home of the Heflebower Moving and Storage Company, was slated for demolition to become a surface parking lot for a nearby housing development.  When that project stalled and the property became available, the team of Ardent Craft Ales, Crossroads Development and Johannas Design was well into the search for a home for Ardent Craft Ales flagship brewery.  This property, with four distinct buildings and ample open space, lent itself well to a brewery, taproom and beer garden with room to grow.

The efficient flow of an industrial use, the comfort of an inviting taproom and the desire to recreate the neighborhood beer garden was consistent with the pre-prohibition vision that Ardent looks to for inspiration. Flexibility within a rigid structure can summarize the brewing process, the entertainment options and the forethought put into growth potential.  Already expanding fermentation by 50% in it's first few months the brewery has been able to expand it's offerings in a wide range of styles. Groups as varied as Saturday brewery tour trolleys, birthday parties, homebrewing clubs and the Virginia Historical Society have intermingled with visitors from near and far to enjoy the taproom, beer garden and carefully crafted beers.

The project took advantage of State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits as a contributing structure to the Scott's Addition Historic District.  Scott's Addition, bound by train track and highway to the North and West and Boulevard and Broad Street to the East and South is striving to maintain it's entrepreneurial manufacturing and distribution aura alongside the many properties being converted into residential apartments.  Ardent Craft Ales is an integral part of bridging those development pressures. Raw material arrive and finished product is distributed statewide throughout the week while neighbors walk in and enjoy time socializing with friends and colleagues. 

The entire development team, alongside a talented group of local craftsman and designers, share a commitment to Richmond's growth from within. While Ardent has found themselves in the National and International press, the most secure economy is one that is genuinely local and neighborly.