Historic Smithville Building Transformed into Celebration Boutique

Owners navigate risks in restoration of 1895 structure to open Faire La Nouba

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:00pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen illustration featuring a vintage cash register or cash drawer repeated in a grid pattern, conceptually representing the restoration of a historic retail space in Smithville, Texas.The restoration of a historic Smithville building into a vibrant new celebration boutique pays homage to the town's commercial heritage.Smithville Today

The 1895 building at 110 Main St. in Smithville, Texas, which was once home to Charlie's BBQ and the Smithville Playhouse, has been restored and reopened as Faire La Nouba, a celebration store, bottle shop, and gift boutique. Owners Rachael and Brian Tolbert worked with local builder Turquoise Moon to maintain the building's historic character, a process that required persistence and a willingness to embrace the unknowns of old structures.

Why it matters

The restoration of the historic building follows a wave of Main Street programs pushing downtown maintenance in Bastrop County. Officials say historic storefronts serve as both economic drivers and cultural monuments, and in Smithville, the town's identity is closely tied to its preserved architecture and locally owned businesses.

The details

The Tolberts purchased the building in February and faced challenges during the restoration process, including structural concerns, contractor limitations, and working within the boundaries of Smithville's historic district. The restoration required coordination with the city's historical commission, which oversees exterior changes. Tolbert said the process was straightforward and supportive, as the city was 'thrilled to have someone willing to do that work'.

  • The Tolberts purchased the building in February 2026.
  • The restoration of the 1895 building was completed in April 2026.

The players

Rachael Tolbert

The owner of Faire La Nouba, a celebration store, bottle shop, and gift boutique located in the restored 1895 building.

Brian Tolbert

Rachael Tolbert's husband, who worked with her on the restoration of the historic building.

Turquoise Moon

The local builder that worked with the Tolberts to maintain the building's historic character during the restoration process.

Smithville Historical Commission

The city organization that oversees exterior changes to historic buildings in Smithville's historic district.

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What they’re saying

“The hardest part was the courage it took to take some of those leaps not knowing what we were going to find. You just don't know what you're going to get.”

— Rachael Tolbert, Owner, Faire La Nouba

“All those things factor in and really limit the sort of contractor that you're able to get … to be both brave and skilled.”

— Rachael Tolbert, Owner, Faire La Nouba

“The idea is to restore it. The city, frankly, was thrilled to have someone willing to do that work.”

— Rachael Tolbert, Owner, Faire La Nouba

What’s next

The Tolberts plan to incorporate a stained-glass feature in the future that sits where a segregated entrance once was, to symbolize unity and inclusivity.

The takeaway

The restoration of the historic 1895 building into Faire La Nouba, a celebration store and community hub, highlights the importance of preserving Smithville's architectural heritage and supporting locally owned businesses that contribute to the town's unique identity.