The 2024 Flood

What Happened

On September 27, 2024, catastrophic flooding from Hurricane Helene swept through Asheville’s River Arts District, submerging much of the neighborhood and damaging an estimated 80% of its buildings. The Historic Asheville Cotton Mill Studios was among the many creative spaces hit hard, but thanks to months of focused work, we are now rebuilt, upgraded, and open again to the community.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the French Broad River rose rapidly, sending floodwaters through studios, galleries, and small businesses all along Riverside Drive. Power and utilities were lost, artwork and equipment were destroyed, and many River Arts District businesses were forced to close while they assessed the damage and fought through insurance and recovery processes. At The Asheville Cotton Mill, the floodwaters reached the rafters of the first floor. The floodwaters damaged building systems, finishes, and outdoor areas. Our first floor tenants like Kizmet Yogawear and the Beloved Asheville Guitar Bar were submerged in flood waters. They lost everything. Guajiro Cuban Comfort food was washed away. They also lost everything. Upstairs studios were temporarily closed. As we removed debris, dried and treated the structure we confirmed that the bones of the building withstood the flood.

What We’ve Rebuilt & Upgraded

After weeks of clean-up, debris removal, and remediation We began mapping out a full rebuild plan that would both restore the building and make it safer and more resilient for the future. As part of our post-flood rebuild, we have invested in:

• All-new electrical systems throughout the building

• New gas service and infrastructure

• Upgraded fire sprinklers and life-safety systems

• New plumbing and mechanical upgrades

• New doors and refurbished window panes

• Newly remodeled first floor

• Basement encapsulation

• Refurbished original wood floors in the studios and common areas

• Restored original brick and mortar throughout the building

• New lighting and security systems

• A new front deck and outdoor gathering space overlooking the French Broad River

• A new back patio and outdoor gathering space for train watching

• Improved parking with an updated urban garden that brings green back to the site

These upgrades honor the building’s 1887 industrial bones while giving artists, makers, musicians, and guests a safer, more comfortable place to create and gather.

How to Support the Rebuild

Soon, the Asheville Cotton Mill will once again be home to a mix of artists, makers, and small businesses, including Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food, Luxe House Photographic, Erin Adam’s Photography, Alison Press Fine Art, Bleupansy Artisan Jewelery, Align Asheville, Linsey Gray Art, Amanda Mclenon and Jonathan Bidwell of Asheville Fine Arts.

The best way to support the River Arts District and the Asheville Cotton Mill is to visit in person: walk through the studios, have a meal at Guajiro, and share your experience with friends.

If you’re interested in hosting an event, collaborating, or joining our waiting list for studio space, please contact us.