Location: Fayetteville, NC
Scope of Work: Foodservice Design, Equipment Specification & Installation, Furniture
A New Standard in Army Dining
As part of the U.S. Army’s modernization initiative, Fort Bragg set out to reimagine Building 5530, formerly a traditional Army galley, into a contemporary, soldier-focused dining destination. The goal was not simply to renovate a space, but to enhance the overall experience and better support today’s operational demands.
The result is Spears Restaurant, Fort Bragg’s first combined bistro and micro market concept. Designed to support readiness, efficiency, and quality of life, the new facility reflects the Army’s forward-looking approach to sustainment while delivering a dining environment that feels open, welcoming, and built for today’s soldiers.
Reimagining the Traditional DFAC
The existing dining facility was dated in both layout and atmosphere. Limited flexibility, constrained service flow, and traditional operating hours restricted both access and experience.
Fort Bragg’s vision aligned with the Army’s broader modernization program by introducing a fast-casual, station-style dining model that improves traffic flow and reduces wait times, along with a micro market that expands access to quality, convenient meals when traditional DFACs are closed.
Turning Vision into Reality
Boelter helped transform the former galley into a vibrant, campus-style bistro anchored by a fully integrated micro market concept.
The renovation included a redesigned layout with multiple food stations, updated equipment and contemporary sneeze guards, custom cabinetry modifications with quartz tray rails, and the fabrication and installation of a micro market to support ready-made meal options. Fresh paint, a modern color palette, and new furniture completed the transformation. Close coordination with stainless steel and HVAC partners ensured seamless integration of all foodservice equipment.
“Axis Designs was honored to support the grand reopening of the Spears DFAC. In partnership with Boelter, our team provided planning, fabrication design, custom cabinetry, equipment installation, and on-site coordination. From modifying existing stainless steel to installing the micro market kiosk and quartz tray rails, we helped transform the serving area into a modern, fully equipped culinary destination,” said Casey Shatters, Design & Project Director at Axis Designs.
Behind the scenes, extensive coordination across operations, logistics, procurement, signage, and staffing ensured the facility was fully prepared for reopening. Rehearsals, inspections, and contingency planning validated that every detail, from equipment performance to service flow, met Army standards and delivered a seamless customer experience.
