Historic basement renovation earns Bivouac Cellars award

CHELAN — A military veteran couple's innovative transformation of an unused basement into a wine-tasting room has earned them statewide recognition for historic preservation efforts.

Kris and Kevin Smith, owners of Bivouac Cellars, received the Brick & Mortar Award at the 2024 Excellence on Main ceremony, organized by the Washington Main Street Program. The award acknowledges their contribution to downtown Chelan's preservation and economic development.

Breanne Durham, Program Coordinator for Washington Main Street, detailed the Smiths' journey during the award presentation, noting their story began in Germany over 25 years ago as young Army lieutenants. Living in Europe for almost 15 years exposed them to wine's special role in social gatherings and beautiful spaces.

"While many communities would still refer to this low vacancy rate sarcastically as a 'real tough problem,' the reality is that many Main Street districts in Washington are grappling with how to encourage entrepreneurship when the street level vacancy rate is at zero, and the turnover rate is similarly low," Durham said. "Tapping into possibilities above and even below street level takes the creativity, vision, and persistence that we love to celebrate through these awards."

"Bivouac Cellars Underground has not only deepened downtown Chelan's wine-tasting opportunities but also sparked the imagination for other underutilized spaces," said Aimee Sheridan, Executive Director for Historic Downtown Chelan Association. "The award from Washington Main Street is a testament to Kris and Kevin's ability to turn obstacles into opportunities while preserving Chelan's historic downtown."

The ceremony was attended by Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle, Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce Director and Washington State 12th District Representative Mike Steele, and Historic Downtown Chelan Association Executive Director Aimee Sheridan.

The Washington State Main Street Program, operating since 1984, encompasses more than 70 towns and cities across Washington, including Chelan. The program helps communities revitalize the economy, appearance, and image of their downtown commercial districts.