Deep Ellum, a district synonymous with vibrant music and artistic expression, has long been recognized as the cultural heart of Dallas since the 1920s. Yet, beneath this lively facade lies a profound industrial heritage that truly shaped its economic soul. At the epicenter of this foundational manufacturing era was The Continental Gin Company, a colossal enterprise that not only powered the local economy but also etched its legacy into the very fabric of the neighborhood.
For decades, Deep Ellum proudly hosted the largest manufacturer of cotton gins in the United States: The Continental Gin Company. Established in 1900 through the strategic absorption of several successful ginning operations by Alabama’s Continental Gin Company, this industrial giant played an instrumental role in the nation’s burgeoning cotton industry. Its imposing brick buildings, emblematic of early 20th-century industrial architecture, were a hub of innovation and productivity. After over sixty years of operation, the company eventually ceased manufacturing in 1962, leaving behind a monumental structure that would undergo several transformations, including a period as artist studios, before its serendipitous rediscovery.
It was during one such evening, while attending a show at the artist studios housed within the historic walls, that brothers Jordan and Evan August first encountered the building. “We saw the building and fell in love with it,” Jordan recounted, a sentiment that sparked a remarkable journey of preservation and revitalization. Fueled by an immediate connection to the grandeur and potential of the space, Jordan took a bold step: “I cold-called the former owner.” Fortuitously, the owner, a Dallas native with a shared connection to Jesuit High School, was at a point in his life where he was ready to sell. The stars, as Jordan eloquently put it, truly aligned, culminating in the August brothers’ acquisition of the property in 2017. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Continental Gin Company building, transitioning from an industrial relic to a beacon of Deep Ellum’s future.
A Family Legacy in Dallas Real Estate and Historic Preservation
The August brothers’ foray into revitalizing the Continental Gin Company building was not merely a chance encounter but a natural extension of a deeply ingrained family legacy in real estate. Their father, Tom August, has been a distinguished figure in commercial real estate for decades, imparting invaluable knowledge and a passion for property development. Jordan and Evan, however, brought their own unique talents and perspectives to the business, creating a powerful synergy for their ambitious projects.
Evan, with a robust background as an investment sales broker at CBRE in San Diego, relocated to Dallas in 2014, bringing sharp financial acumen and market insight. Jordan, on the other hand, pursued an architecture program at UC Berkeley, cultivating a keen eye for design and structural integrity. After returning home in 2013, he gained hands-on experience by selling residential real estate, designing and building custom homes, and working for prominent private developers, including Mehrdad Moayedi on the iconic Statler Hotel project. With their father contemplating retirement and the brothers sharing a profound love for real estate and, crucially, historic properties, the decision to launch August Real Estate Company became another perfectly aligned moment. Their combined expertise—from architectural vision to investment strategy—was precisely what was needed to embark on the complex journey of breathing new life into the Continental Gin Company building.
Upon acquisition, the August brothers immediately commenced the meticulous and extensive restoration of the Continental Gin Company building. This ambitious undertaking, spanning approximately two years, focused on preserving its historic essence while integrating modern functionalities essential for contemporary use. The comprehensive process involved expert restoration of the original brickwork and the structural floor system, which required careful craftsmanship to maintain the building’s historic character. Simultaneously, they thoughtfully added modern amenities such as passenger elevators and updated restrooms, ensuring accessibility and comfort without compromising the structure’s integrity. Their commitment to historical accuracy and superior execution did not go unnoticed; the project was lauded with a prestigious Preservation Dallas Achievement Award, a testament to the exemplary revitalization efforts that returned this Dallas landmark to its former glory while preparing it for a vibrant new future.
Deep Ellum’s iconic water tower is a major element at the 1888 Continental Gin Company Building. The renovation cleaned and repaired the building while leaving as many historic elements in place as possible. Restoration required extensive consultation with the Texas Historical Commission and the National Park Service to make the project eligible for historic tax credits. The work included removing non-historic paint, replacing damaged brick, and cleaning and repointing intact historic brick. New construction was removed from the existing walls as much as possible, and original materials were cleaned and preserved. The reimagining of this building ensures its continuing contributions to Deep Ellum’s vitality and growth.
Donovan Westover— Preservation Dallas Events and Development Coordinator
The exhaustive restoration outlined by Donovan Westover underscores the August brothers’ dedication to authentic preservation. Every detail, from the careful removal of non-historic paint to the meticulous replacement of damaged brick and the cleaning and repointing of the original intact brickwork, was executed with respect for the building’s past. The process involved extensive consultation with regulatory bodies like the Texas Historical Commission and the National Park Service, a crucial step that not only ensured adherence to stringent preservation standards but also qualified the project for valuable historic tax credits. This strategic approach highlights the economic as well as cultural benefits of adaptive reuse. By removing non-original additions and diligently preserving the authentic materials, the August team didn’t just renovate a building; they resurrected a piece of Dallas history, guaranteeing its continued contribution to Deep Ellum’s dynamic growth and identity for generations to come. The celebrated water tower, adorned with a contemporary mural by renowned artist Shepard Fairey, further epitomizes this harmonious blend of past and present, serving as a vibrant landmark within the revitalized complex.
An In-Demand Concept: Modern Workspaces in a Historic Setting
Even amidst the intricate restoration process, the August brothers were forward-thinking about the building’s future purpose. “In the middle of the restoration, we started talking to Nick Clark and Dawson Williams at Common Desk,” Jordan explained. This pivotal collaboration led to a management agreement that brought the innovative co-working concept of Common Desk to the Continental Gin Company. Beyond providing flexible office solutions, the partnership also introduced Fiction Coffee on the first floor, transforming the ground level into a vibrant, accessible hub for tenants and the Deep Ellum community alike. The immediate success was astounding: “We were leased out in a few months,” Jordan noted.
Remarkably, this rapid leasing success occurred in the tumultuous year of 2020, at the height of a global pandemic. Far from being a hindrance, the timing proved to be unexpectedly advantageous. “It was actually fantastic timing,” Jordan affirmed. The unexpected shift in work paradigms brought about by the pandemic only amplified the demand for flexible, experiential office spaces that offered character, community, and adaptability—precisely what the Continental Gin Company building, with its unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, provided. The vision to combine Deep Ellum’s industrial heritage with contemporary co-working solutions, anchored by a inviting coffee shop, created a highly sought-after environment that quickly solidified its position as a vibrant new center for business and collaboration in Dallas.
Deep Ellum’s Enduring Evolution: A Blueprint for Urban Revitalization
The transformation of The Continental Gin Company building stands as a powerful testament to the enduring value of historic preservation and adaptive reuse, not just for Deep Ellum, but for urban centers everywhere. It represents more than simply renovating an old structure; it signifies a conscious decision to weave the rich tapestry of the past into the dynamic fabric of the future. This project demonstrates how preserving architectural heritage can create unique, character-filled spaces that attract modern businesses and foster a vibrant community, thereby driving economic growth and cultural continuity.
The success story of The Continental Gin Company complex—from its roots as an industrial powerhouse to its rebirth as a contemporary co-working hub—offers a compelling blueprint for urban revitalization. It shows that by honoring the distinct identity of historic buildings and thoughtfully adapting them for present-day needs, developers can craft environments that are not only sustainable but also deeply desirable. Such projects reinforce a sense of place, distinguish neighborhoods from generic developments, and cultivate a unique atmosphere that resonates with businesses and residents seeking authenticity and inspiration. The blend of art (like Shepard Fairey’s water tower mural), history, and innovative workspaces ensures Deep Ellum continues to thrive as one of Dallas’s most dynamic and cherished districts.
Experience History Transformed: Join the Continental Gin Company Building Intown Outing
We invite you to take some time out of your day next Tuesday to personally tour the magnificent Continental Gin Company building. This is a unique opportunity to witness firsthand why an increasing number of companies and individuals are recognizing the immense value and profound impact of historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Explore the meticulously restored interiors, appreciate the seamless integration of modern amenities within a historic shell, and gain insight into the vision that transformed this Dallas landmark into a thriving contemporary workspace.
Discover the rich history, the intricate details of the award-winning restoration, and the vibrant community that now calls this iconic Deep Ellum building home. This exclusive event is free for current members of Preservation Dallas, offering a chance to connect with like-minded individuals passionate about safeguarding our architectural heritage. For non-members, a nominal fee of $20 grants access to this insightful experience. If you are inspired to join or renew your Preservation Dallas membership and contribute to future preservation efforts, please visit the official Preservation Dallas website or call (214) 821-3290 to learn more about how you can make a difference.
Continental Gin Company Building Intown Outing
TUESDAY | June 28
5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
3309 Elm Street, Dallas 75226
Register Here