MASHUP
Location:
750 East Jefferson Street, Louisville, KY 40202
Project Type:
Mixed Use
Status:
Completed Winter 2025
Client:
Weyland Ventures
Scope:
92,760 SF Mixed Use Shell Building w/
Tenant Buildout
Services:
Architecture
Interior Architecture
Interior Design
Weyland Ventures provided DKN with an initial concept rendering that envisioned a contemporary interpretation of a late-19th-century urban warehouse building; an infill structure designed to complement the surrounding historic context. DKN translated that vision into a fully realized building, refining the architectural language while preserving the character and proportions that anchored the original concept.
Although the project initially called for thin-brick veneer, budget constraints led to the use of an EIFS brick system, a high-performance faux-brick finish selected for its ability to replicate traditional masonry. The primary design challenge lay in recreating the depth and articulation of historic brickwork. The EIFS subcontractor delivered an impressive result, successfully integrating stepped insets, window accents, and other masonry-like detailing within the system’s limitations.
The oversized windows introduced another layer of complexity. With heads reaching 11 to 12 feet above finished floor, and an overall building height capped to avoid classification as a high-rise, coordinating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems required careful planning. While routing everything above the high window heads wasn’t always achievable, the team made every effort to protect the generous interior volumes that characterize the building.
As potential tenant needs evolved, the building’s occupancy separations and fire-rating strategies were continually refined. DKN navigated multiple rounds of changes, balancing cost, code compliance, and design intent, as the approach to structural protection shifted between exposed elements and various fireproofing methodologies.
Our challenge was to deliver a flexible mixed-use shell designed to accommodate changing tenant needs and future opportunities.
DKN was engaged by Weyland Ventures to design the buildout of a dynamic new food hall located on the first floor of the MashUp building. The vision was to create a lively destination where small restaurants and start-up vendors could showcase their offerings in a setting that draws energy from the surrounding NuLu neighborhood, an area rapidly growing as a destination for both locals and tourists. The project builds on DKN’s ongoing collaboration with Weyland Ventures in shaping the district’s evolution, including the neighboring Tempo Hotel, that contribute to NuLu’s vibrant pedestrian experience.
Upon entering the food hall, guests are greeted by a vibrant bar that sets the tone for the entire space. Tinted glass shelving, a bright mesh bar canopy, and bold yellow ductwork introduce the playful color palette that carries throughout the interior.
Each vendor booth is defined by a colored metal frame, complemented by varied concrete countertop tones, textured metal siding, and opportunities for custom signage that reflect each tenant’s identity. Even utilitarian areas, such as the restrooms and elevator lobby, extend the palette, featuring colorful accents and custom grout hues that tie back to the overarching scheme.
Toward the rear, the dining area offers a mix of communal tables and soft seating, encouraging both social gatherings and relaxed conversation. Overhead, vibrant metal mesh ceiling elements help bring down the scale of the high volume, while large globe fixtures add warmth and atmosphere.
At the heart of the space is the multi-functional social stair, a central gathering element designed to serve as casual seating by day and a flexible venue for live music, cooking demonstrations, and community events by night. Overhead, a series of wire clouds adds an unexpected touch of whimsy, bringing movement and playfulness to the space. Beneath it, a playful children’s nook features bright colors and peek-through openings for creative exploration. Nearby, built-in cubbies provide cozy spots for individuals or small groups seeking a bit more privacy within the energetic environment.
DKN worked with a local furniture vendor to select furniture and finishes for the food hall that complemented the space and stayed within budget.
The second floor of the MashUp building was designed as a flexible coworking environment, tailored to accommodate a mix of small offices and larger enterprise zones. DKN collaborated with Weyland Ventures to balance privacy and collaboration, providing spaces for 2–8 person offices alongside shared conference rooms, a large training room, private phone booths, and a central lounge area.
The lounge functions as the main gathering area, featuring soft seating, table arrangements, break-out zones, and a small kitchenette, all designed to encourage both casual interaction and focused work. Bright colors create continuity with the first-floor food hall, while acoustic baffles in the ceiling help manage noise and add another colorful design element. Globe lighting carries through from below, unifying the two floors, and whimsical details, like squirrel-shaped pendants, bring personality to breakout spaces.
DKN curated the furniture and finishes throughout the floor to ensure a cohesive, functional, and visually engaging environment for all users.
