Herban Marketplace
Exposed wood porch meets coastal wind design
2019
Herban Marketplace
The Project
Located along Bay Street in historic downtown Beaufort, Herban Marketplace is a beloved local restaurant known for its organic, sustainable, and community-focused dining experience. The project involved the renovation of an existing concrete masonry unit (CMU) building and the addition of a new wood-framed porch that enhances the restaurant’s welcoming, natural aesthetic.
The Challenge
The project’s key challenge was aesthetic and structural balance: integrating exposed wood framing into an existing masonry structure in a coastal environment with high wind pressures. Because the porch framing would remain visible, all bolts, straps, and connections had to meet both architectural and structural standards—providing strength and durability without compromising the natural, crafted appearance the architect envisioned. Additionally, the existing CMU structure required careful assessment to ensure that new attachments and loads from the porch framing would not overstress the older masonry.
The Solution
29E6 collaborated closely with Allison-Ramsey Architects to achieve a seamless integration of new and old construction. The wood-framed porch was designed to meet Beaufort’s stringent coastal wind design requirements while maintaining the architect’s aesthetic goals of warmth, authenticity, and texture. Exposed connectors and fasteners were strategically detailed minimizing visual clutter while maintaining structural integrity. The interface between wood and masonry was reinforced and properly flashed to prevent moisture intrusion, and lateral bracing was discreetly concealed to maintain a clean, open appearance.
The Improvements
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Optimized wood connection detailing to balance structural strength and architectural visibility.
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Refined tie-down and bolting layout to meet wind uplift requirements up to code for Beaufort’s hurricane-prone zone.
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Enhanced connection detailing between the porch framing and existing CMU to distribute loads effectively without overloading the existing structure.
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Moisture and corrosion protection measures applied at wood-masonry interfaces for long-term durability.
The Results
The completed Herban Marketplace renovation successfully blends natural materials with structural performance. The exposed wood porch not only enhances the restaurant’s curb appeal but also communicates the brand’s commitment to authenticity and sustainability. The careful coordination between architect and engineer resulted in a structure that is both visually honest and technically sound, capable of withstanding coastal weather while remaining warm and inviting to diners.
