Architectural Evolution
Situated in Columbus, United States, Middle West Spirits embarked on an expansion journey to enhance its artisan distillery business housed within a historic warehouse. The project, led by Jonathan Barnes Architecture and Design, aimed to accommodate new distillery equipment while incorporating public spaces like a tasting room, bottle shop, and offices.
Monolithic Elegance
The expansion involved the removal of a portion of the original structure’s roof, making way for a new tiered steel tower. Clad entirely in Kalwall panels, the tower exudes a monolithic white facade, radiating a captivating glow both day and night. The design’s seamless integration with the urban landscape enhances the neighborhood’s vibrancy.
Fusion of Functionality and Aesthetics
The interior spaces blend industrial charm with contemporary elegance. Exposed ceiling structures and skylights illuminate the tasting room, creating an inviting ambiance. Collapsible window panels seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a dynamic environment conducive to social interaction.
Innovative Design Solutions
The production area features steel-structured mezzanine levels, offering operational accessibility and public viewing opportunities. Despite spatial constraints, the project successfully navigated challenges, including the installation of tall stills and compliance with safety regulations for high hazard spaces.
Ambiguity of Scale
The addition’s monolithic design challenges conventional notions of scale, creating a striking contrast with the historic warehouse. This juxtaposition highlights the transformative nature of the expansion, redefining the warehouse’s architectural identity as a “parabuilding.”
Conclusion: Redefining Distillery Architecture
Through innovative design and meticulous planning, Middle West Spirits’ expansion project transcends traditional brewery architecture, offering a distinctive blend of functionality, aesthetics, and urban integration. The project stands as a testament to the transformative power of architecture in shaping memorable and immersive experiences.
