The Augusta Distillery is in a small Kentucky river town, occupying a 40,000 square foot historic carriage manufacturing building. The teams’ vision was to bridge the charm of the historic buildings and with a modern, state-of-the-art production facility. They wanted to stay true to traditional bourbon routes and celebrate the relationship with the river, the water, bourbon, and their neighbors. The theme of “noble roots” was developed – modern, luxe, and tailored. Through rigorous coordination with our consultants, a complex and spatially restrictive program was patched into a 150-year-old building. A program in which each pipe and switch counts, the beauty of this project comes from the necessity of its many components. The client had big dreams of a space that functioned well but also allowed for animated tours and learning. A true destination for the bourbon enthusiast was created where the old shines brightly in white, and the modern additions contrast and complement in their signature Augusta blue. The first two phases of three have been complete, allowing for bourbon production, barrel storage, and tours. The unique tailoring of guest experiences, ranging from outdoor concerts and private library tastings, is yet to come.

*Co-architect - Sansalone Architecture Studio