On May 20, 1960 an American Flag — that once flew over the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. — was raised in front of the first official Post Office in Collierville as part of the opening dedication.
On the corner of Main and Natchez, the Post Office served the Town’s residents, 2,020 at the time, for 28 years.
By the late 1980’s the town had grown significantly, reaching a population of 14,427 in 1990. The Collierville Post Office moved to its current location on Center Street, leaving the old Post Office building available for reuse. In the mid 1990s, the Collierville Herald occupied the space and eventually split the building with the Family Taekwondo Center.
Today, change continues as the latest tenants have re-located, and the 5,000 square foot building is being transformed into an upscale restaurant, employing the concept of adaptive reuse while keeping the building’s history in mind throughout the refurbishment.
“I chose that space because of the rich history,” said Brian Thurmond, owner/executive chef of 148 North. “The Square has thoughtfully kept the charm of old Collierville alive as buildings have been renovated, and I’d like to be a catalyst in the process.”
Currently under construction, the façade is receiving a face-lift including architectural detail added to the roofline, a large glass door-front, and a corrugated metal canopy over the outdoor seating area.
“Working with the Heritage Commission, the architects created a design to have an informal connection to the Square pulling inspiration from large windows, railings and even benches,” said Jamie Groce, town planner.
With some of Town Square’s oldest structures dating back to the late 1800s, the turn-of-the-century style of the Post Office building did not boast the same level of architectural detail. However, 148 North is being renovated to specifically emulate the look of Town Square’s iconic buildings.
In addition to the building’s façade honoring historical integrity, Thurmond also wants to create an atmosphere that coincides with the small-town feel of Collierville, noting that the “feel” was a personal draw to the town. Living in downtown Collierville, he wants 148 North to be a restaurant where his family, residents and visitors can casually walk up and spend time there together.
“I want to provide a service to Collierville as a community-driven place where people can enjoy a good meal,” said Thurmond.
Located just a few steps north of the Square, 148 North will open this summer serving Southern/French cuisine.
There will be an outdoor patio with eight tables, a dining room with around 35 tables and a bar accommodating 15-20 guests. The restaurant will be joining Brooks Pharm2Fork as another new eatery opening this year in Collierville’s historic downtown.
