While ACM Designs is planning the big reveal for its HALI Restaurant Makeover later this month, Mill Pond owner Brad Archer was happy to pose for a few photos in the new space July 7.

The restaurant received a $25,000 facelift after being announced as the competition winner in March. Hosted by ACM Designs, the Carnarvon eatery beat out Truss Foodworks Smokehouse and Maple Avenue Tap and Grill for the prize of a design and décor upgrade. Archer said it was the first substantial renovation of the site in more than 30 years.

This is the second contest of its kind in the community following the Big Lobby Makeover in 2020, which saw the $25,000 transformation of the front entry at Bonnie View Inn.

ACM Designs owner Andria Cowan Molyneaux said she places huge importance on these social responsibility campaigns, noting she feels obligated to invest back into the community that has supported her business for several years.

“A big part of our culture is understanding where we live and who we live with. We’ve been very fortunate over the last years to make it through COVID, grow as a company and be very successful. But it wasn’t the same for everyone,” she said. “We have chosen to reinvest in our community, care for and support these businesses.”

Other partners contributing to the makeover included Churko Electric, Kegel Heating and Cooling, Cordell Carpet, Emmerson Lumber, Yours Outdoors, Quartz Co. Surfaces, and Cambria Surfaces.