El Puente Café at Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

The Jamail & Smith team provided a quality construction result for El Puente Café at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. The “El Puente” Café, located at the West Lobby bridge, is a large space with beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the San Antonio River Walk. The client’s goal was to create a relaxing space that could be used and enjoyed by convention attendees. From tiny details like the 1×1 ceramic tiling to the intricate metal tree centerpieces, our team oversaw the entire renovation project and ensured all specifications and requirements were met. 

Meeting the scope of the project included demoing the existing space, coordinating with the interior design team on the layout, ordering, and installation of furniture and equipment, and working closely with the welders, subcontractors, and client to achieve the desired result. 

The beginning of the project was challenging due to the busyness of the center during the day. Our team was relegated to night and weekend hours so as not to disrupt those using the building. Shortly after the project began, however, the initial COVID wave swept the US, and we suddenly had the entire building to ourselves to complete the project. 

Amidst the pandemic, our team got to work. New millwork and solid surface quartz countertops with LED lighting and tiles were installed. The glass tiles underneath the countertops follow a specific pattern, requiring close attention to detail. The welder created most of the metal trees on site, creating and adapting as he went. 

The result is a hub for those attending events or meetings at Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center to eat, drink, and relax while surrounded by beautiful details and comfortable furniture. Instead of leaving the center in search of coffee, snacks, or a meal, convention attendees and office personnel alike will be grateful to find these conveniently available at El Puente Café. 

Our San Antonio Regional Manager commented, “I always tell my team, ‘treat each project like it was your home.’ We try to make our clients feel that we are an extension of their team and provide something that can really help their business while making them look great.”