Downtown Springdale was in need of an upscale dining destination, and Cromwell Architects Engineers partnered with co-owners Bert Jones and Lisa Provencio-Jones to bring their vision for Gaskins on Emma to life. Drawing inspiration from their award-winning Gaskins Cabin Steakhouse in Eureka Springs—an authentic 1860s log cabin celebrated for its fine dining experience—they envisioned a sophisticated yet inviting restaurant that showcases the quality of their carefully curated dishes and enhances the culinary experience.
Inspiration was drawn from both the location and the menu itself. Where high quality is highlighted through the expression of individual components with honesty and simplicity, putting their substance and heft on full display, and highlighting their nuanced characteristics through thoughtful and precise combinations, resulting in a humble elegance indicative of something timeless.
Size
Services
Architecture
Engineering
Interior Design
Planning
Size
Services
Architecture
Engineering
Interior Design
Planning
Downtown Springdale was in need of an upscale dining destination, and Cromwell Architects Engineers partnered with co-owners Bert Jones and Lisa Provencio-Jones to bring their vision for Gaskins on Emma to life. Drawing inspiration from their award-winning Gaskins Cabin Steakhouse in Eureka Springs—an authentic 1860s log cabin celebrated for its fine dining experience—they envisioned a sophisticated yet inviting restaurant that showcases the quality of their carefully curated dishes and enhances the culinary experience.
Inspiration was drawn from both the location and the menu itself. Where high quality is highlighted through the expression of individual components with honesty and simplicity, putting their substance and heft on full display, and highlighting their nuanced characteristics through thoughtful and precise combinations, resulting in a humble elegance indicative of something timeless.
The design captures the moody, vibrant energy of a modern downtown space while incorporating bold colors, rich contrasts, and thoughtful details. Visitors are immediately greeted by a custom-crafted bar with a layered torn-maple front, designed and fabricated by Rachel McClintock, which takes center stage upon entrance. Behind the bar, illuminated custom-steel shelves create an inviting focal point with depth and warmth while creating a conversation with both the new and historical steel elements throughout the space, tying the spaces together. In the dining room, salvaged industrial windows restored by Bert add a layer of authenticity and character, while stained glass, created by a local artist, elegantly separates the wait station from the dining area. Additional details such as custom solid wood slotted half-walls, imbued with color and depth from an iron and tea bath, create unobtrusive but robust spatial divisions. Unfinished raw steel framed partitions serve as the throughline throughout the space, providing the mounting for all other material accents and enhancing the functional flow while adding unique visual interest.
A standout feature of Gaskins on Emma is the transformation of the building’s original bank vault into a stunning wine cellar, preserving a piece of history while introducing a memorable and charming touch. Lighting throughout the restaurant, carefully curated by Lisa, enhances the intimate atmosphere, combining a low golden light with the high ceilings and dramatic design elements to create a warm and sophisticated ambiance.
Behind the scenes, the restaurant is outfitted with state-of-the-art industrial kitchen appliances and a custom-designed hood vent, ensuring exceptional food preparation. The exposed specialized ductwork throughout not only complements the industrial aesthetic but also meets the unique heating and cooling needs of the space. Engineering solutions were further integrated into the design, such as with the addition of an ADA-compliant ramp that separates the dining area from the bar while maintaining seamless flow while meeting accessibility needs.
Gaskins on Emma balances elegance and comfort, offering a space that invites patrons to return time and again for exceptional food and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, the restaurant reflects a cumulative vision to revitalize Downtown Springdale.
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