Smith Creek Moonshine
Retail
Smith Creek Moonshine is a custom retail tenant fit-out located within Tanger Outlets in Pigeon Forge, designed to create an immersive, mountain-inspired experience. The space brings together retail, storytelling, and tasting in a way that reflects Smith Creek’s rustic identity while remaining functional and easy to navigate for both guests and staff.
The design draws inspiration from the surrounding Smoky Mountains, creating an interior that feels outdoors-focused and authentic. Working closely with the owner’s team, GAE Architecture + Design introduced bold focal elements to anchor the space. A real pickup truck front greets visitors at the entry, with the elongated truck bed reimagined as a communal tasting bar with internally lit glass countertops and branded signage.
The immersive theme continues throughout the store through custom millwork and material choices. A covered-bridge-inspired ramp provides ADA access while visually connecting two levels of the space. An active water mill adds the sound of running water, while warm, rustic wood finishes extend from floor to near-ceiling for efficient product storage and workflow.
The completed space successfully delivers an outdoor experience within the four walls of a retail tenant. Developed in close coordination with the owner’s theming team and Tanger Outlets, the project established a design template later used for Smith Creek Moonshine’s Opry Mills location in Nashville.
Project Details
Location: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Project size: 3,806 sq ft
Completion date: 2019