At George Armour Ewart, Architect, every plan begins with a deep understanding and appreciation of the many details that go into a great design.

During every design-build, we carefully consider how the end result will promote a positive experience for building occupants and the community at large. As a result, we’re able to deliver customer experiences that are unique, purposeful, and good for business.

Let’s take a look at a few of our team’s favorite small businesses in Knoxville that also incorporate beautiful designs into their buildings to enhance the shopping experience…

‘Tis the Season to Appreciate Beautiful Spaces

There’s no better time to appreciate the beauty around us than the holidays! These small businesses are inspiring Knoxvillians with stunning interior and exterior design elements…

Kimball’s Jewelers
This season it’s all about the sparkles! Known as Knoxville’s premier jewelry store, Kimball’s and its parent company have been serving the area since 1864. This small business is one of our team’s favorites to recommend this time of year because it’s a staple in our community and offers a luxury experience. Kimball’s has tons of gift options available for people of all tastes, but it’s their personalized service and clean, elegant interior and exterior that truly makes for a memorable shopping experience.

Glass Bazaar

This small business offers the best of both worlds: a charming, beautiful building and something beautiful to take home this season. Glass Bazaar is a high-end gift shop with local roots in Knoxville. Specializing in gifts for food lovers, they offer a large supply of home goods and cookware. Thanks to an interior demo kitchen, they’re able to host on-site cooking classes using their own products. Overall, this store is sure to have something for everyone on your list—and a cozy, quaint shopping experience for you.

Ashe’s Wines & Spirits

We’re a little biased since our firm was the main architect on this project years ago, but Ashe’s Wines & Spirits remains one of our favorite small business interiors in Knoxville. And the best news is their products are perfect for gifting!

This shop offers a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages in a unique environment that caters to its hometown (go Vols!). From exterior signage to interior decor, you’re sure to find many mentions and odes to Knoxville at Ashe’s. But beyond that, you’ll also find warm brick elements and vintage lighting, all of which makes for a one of a kind shopping experience!

Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop

First started in Knoxville, this now-national brand comes from small and humble beginnings. The original location on Kingston Pike (designed by your friends at our firm) was a hit from the beginning—not just for its delicious pies, but also its modern farmhouse feel. From the moment you walk into the original store, you’ll feel the warmth of all the wood elements and natural lighting in this cozy space.

Shop Small & Local This Holiday Season

Many people think donating money or time are the best ways to give back this season. But the truth is, shopping small when you’re on the gift hunt is a great way to give back to local businesses and cross something off your to-do list at the same time.

Whenever possible, we encourage you to support the small businesses in your community that go above and beyond throughout the year. This could be a business that is out and about helping others, a business you admire for its unique brand or mission, or a business that’s simply known for providing a stand-out customer experience.

Want more suggestions? In addition to the beautiful small businesses mentioned above, our team highly recommends checking out Crafty Bastard Brewery, The Happy Envelope, and the Euphoric Cheese Shop for unique gifts and experiences this season! Whoever you choose to support this season, the entire team here at George Armour Ewart, Architect is wishing you and your loved ones a very merry holiday and a safe, happy New Year!

Images and information in this article were sourced from Ashe’s Wines & Spirits, Glass Bazaar, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop, and Kimball’s Jewellers.