BILTMORE CROSSING: CASE STUDY
Rebuilding 28–32 Hendersonville Road After Hurricane Helene
Biltmore Crossing
Project Overview
Location: 28–32 Hendersonville Road, Biltmore Village, Asheville, NC
Client: Anthony Cerrato – Gemelli
General Contractor: Falcon Development of NC
Project Type: Historic Restoration + Design-Build Restaurant Upfit
Total Investment: Approximately $1.7 Million
Building Size: 9,600 SF (5,780 SF Restaurant)
Timeline: Immediate response post-flood to April 3, 2026
A BUILDING SHAPED BY HISTORY
Originally constructed in the aftermath of the Great Flood of 1916, this building has long been a cornerstone of Biltmore Village’s historic fabric. For over a century, that flood represented the highest water level on record in the region—until Hurricane Helene.
When Helene struck, the building experienced over 11 feet of floodwater, marking one of the most significant events in its history and requiring a complete rethinking of its future.
THE IMPACT OF HURRICANE HELENE
The damage to the structure was extensive and catastrophic:
- Over 11 feet of water moved through the building
- Interior finishes were completely destroyed
- Plaster walls were stripped of paint and integrity
- Floors were buried in mud and debris
- Windows were blown out or compromised
- All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were rendered unusable
What remained was not a candidate for simple renovation—it required a full-scale reconstruction.
Falcon Development mobilized immediately, beginning work the day after the flood.
FULL RECONSTRUCTION APPROACH
The project was executed as a near-total rebuild of the interior structure and systems:
- Complete demolition of damaged interior components
- Installation of all new electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems
- Reconstruction across the full 9,600 square feet of the building
- Full restaurant buildout across 5,780 square feet
While the exterior shell and historic elements were preserved where possible, the majority of the building’s interior was rebuilt from the ground up.
DESIGN-BUILD EXECUTION
This project was delivered through a true design-build approach, led by Falcon Development in close collaboration with ownership.
Project Leadership:
- David Ross, President – Falcon Development of NC
- Jason Pisaro, Project Manager
Key Contributors:
- Adam, Blue Ridge Restaurant Equipment – Kitchen planning and layout
- Claire, Rhythm Interiors – Interior design support
Rather than relying on a fixed design set, the project evolved in real time. Falcon worked directly with the ownership team to make ongoing decisions regarding layout, materials, and finishes.
This approach allowed for:
- Faster decision-making
- Greater flexibility during construction
- Alignment between design vision and field execution
- Efficient management of budget and schedule
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND DETAIL
A defining element of this project was Falcon’s hands-on approach to craftsmanship.
All finish work was carefully considered and executed with attention to detail, including:
- Custom woodwork designed and built by Falcon and team
- Detailed tile work throughout bathrooms and service areas
- Integration of modern systems within a historic structure
- High-quality finishes tailored to a premium restaurant environment
Every aspect of the project—from structural systems to final finishes—was completed with a focus on durability, functionality, and aesthetic quality.
A NEW CHAPTER: GEMELLI
The completed space now serves as the home for Gemelli, a new restaurant concept by Anthony Cerrato, scheduled to open in April 2026.
The project transforms a flood-damaged historic building into a vibrant, high-end dining destination in the heart of Biltmore Village.
OUTCOME
- Complete reconstruction following an 11-foot flood event
- Delivery from disaster to opening in under one year
- Full modernization of building systems and interiors
- Preservation and enhancement of a historic structure
- $1.7 million design-build project executed with precision and speed
FALCON PERSPECTIVE
This project represents Falcon Development’s ability to step into complex, high-risk situations and deliver results through leadership, collaboration, and craftsmanship.
By combining design-build flexibility with hands-on execution, Falcon was able to transform a severely damaged structure into a high-performing, visually refined commercial space—positioned for long-term success.
Shape
Falcon Development of NC
Building with Purpose. Restoring with Integrity. Delivering with Precision.