ABOUT THIS PROJECT
The Luckett & Farley team partnered with Woodford Reserve Bourbon Distillery for a multi-phase transformation of a historic, century-and-a-half-old distillery located in the heart of Kentucky's bourbon-producing region. This distillery, which has played a pivotal role in the rich history of bourbon making, underwent a meticulous design process, aimed at preserving its historic buildings while enhancing and modernizing its functionality. The original structures, which date back to the 1800s, were carefully preserved, maintaining the authenticity and charm of the site. The interiors of these buildings were completely revamped to accommodate modern distillation processes, including copper kettles sourced from Scotland, reflecting the global influence and craftsmanship of the distillery.
A standout feature of the project was the design of the new 9,960-square-foot visitor center, which broke new ground as the first of its kind in the bourbon industry. The visitor center, with its expansive porches and dormers, was inspired by the vernacular architecture of a Kentucky farmhouse. This welcoming space revolutionized bourbon tourism long before the advent of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, providing visitors with a comprehensive and engaging experience. The visitor center housed exhibits on the science of bourbon making, an informative viewing room, a gift shop, and administrative spaces to support operations. The building's design emphasized openness and accessibility, inviting visitors to explore and understand the craft of bourbon production in a relaxed and educational environment.
The firm also designed four new bourbon warehouses, each spanning 91,000 square feet, and a barrel transfer building to further support the distillation and maturation processes. These spaces were transformed to support the aging process, with careful attention to the environmental conditions required for proper maturation. In addition, a new bottling process was integrated to increase efficiency and quality control, enhancing production of premium Kentucky bourbon. Key technical features incorporated into the design included a one-million-gallon water tank and fire suppression systems, which were integral to the distillery’s safety and operational needs. Additionally, an underground disposal network was created to ensure that drainage did not enter natural waterways, further demonstrating the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
By integrating a modern visitor experience with the historical context of the distillery, the project helped elevate Woodford Reserve as a top destination for bourbon enthusiasts. This foresight in visitor experience helped place the distillery at the forefront of the industry, setting a standard for how distilleries could balance tradition with modernity. The project stands as a testament to our commitment to blend historic preservation with innovative, forward-thinking design solutions, ultimately enhancing the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Distillery's legacy and future.