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The Tomato Head Restaurant

The Tomato Head Restaurant, in the historic downtown area of Maryville, TN, called on Eason|Sparkman Associated Architects to renovate an existing building for its second location. The restaurant wanted to extend its commitment to serving wholesome food in a sustainable environment.
Sustainability was kept in mind during all aspects of the design process. Light and plumbing fixtures left behind by the previous occupant were donated to Habitat for Humanity’s salvage store. Steel bowls were donated to the Knoxville Zoo.
The original hardwood floors were refinished using a dustless sanding process and low VOC finish. Seating, tables, and booths were all purchased from former restaurants. Low emitting paints were used on the walls, while bathroom countertops are made from recycled paper and floor tiles are made of reclaimed material.
Local materials were selected for use whenever possible; historic pendant light fixtures salvaged from a downtown Knoxville building were purchased from Knox Heritage for use in the dining area. Even a discarded door with an original advertisement painted on the glass found new life as an office door.
The new materials, found objects and character of the existing materials all work together to meet the Tomato Head’s original concept of a sustainable, creative and innovative eatery.

Design team:
Eason Sparkman Associated Architects
Griffin Engineering
Bender & Associates
Crossroads Construction