For nearly seven decades, Buster's has grown from a modest liquor store into one of Memphis' most respected names; however, the owners wanted to do more the community. The idea of Buster's Butcher Shop was more than just a business expansion; it was a mission to fill a glaring void in Memphis' culinary scene. An independent butcher shop that offered premium meats, artisanal cheeses, and curated gourmet goods, providing customers with high-quality, locally sourced products that were hard to find elsewhere. And when a vacancy in the neighboring space by original Buster's location opened up, it was time to make that dream a reality.

Transforming the shop's original space was no small feat. The layout proved restrictive, requiring GTG expand into adjacent spaces to accommodate necessary equipment. To make more room, we expanded into a nearby elevator lobby, borrowing 5 feet to create better access to the cut room and washroom, which were crucial for the shop's daily operations. In addition, part of Buster's Liquors' East break room was repurposed into a dry-aged walk-in cooler, resulting in a 2,200 SF infill space.

One of the main challenges faced during this renovation was the clinical aesthetic of the industrial equipment. Though necessary for meat preparation, storage, and display, it created a utilitarian and stark visual experience that didn’t align with the atmosphere desired for customers. To combat this, white oak millwork was installed through out the shop, along with warm, brassy decals strategically placed to complement the wood. Paired with ambient lighting, harsh edges of the equipment were softened and key areas of the shop were illuminated.

While the equipment was strategically hidden from view, the constant humming and buzzing of the freezers and other machinery were still present. To address this, GTG took a proactive approach, working closely with suppliers. Motors and other noisy components were relocated to the rooftop, ensuring they were out of sight, and minimizing their impact on the interior environment. This not only helped keep the sound levels to a minimum but also created a more comfortable atmosphere for both the staff and customers inside the butcher shop.

Buster's Butcher Shop isn't just another retail space, it's transformed into an exciting hub for food enthusiasts, a trusted source for families preparing meaning meals, and a symbol of what's possible when legacy, vision, and community care align.

In the spirit of expansion, we also partnered with Buster’s to build their second location in East Memphis. Read more here.

Designshop, architect and photos