Morrison Bowmore Distillers

As part of an on-going framework agreement with the client, Keegans (formerly Dearle & Henderson Consultancy), were asked to refurbish the existing distillery bar, lounge area, blender’s room and warehouse.  The existing bar and lounge area was of traditional design with dark wood panelling and low-level lighting.  As part of a rebranding exercise the client asked for a contemporary design using high quality materials and a more open layout, which required extensive remodelling of the internal 18th century structure.

Following on next was the refurbishment an existing storage area within the distillery into a specialist ‘blenders room’.  The room was to be utilised for the entertainment of VIP guests.  The bar area was designed in a traditional style with refurbished casks utilised as casual tables.  The remainder of the space was designed in a subdued contemporary style to lighten the ambience of the room whilst complementing the bar area. In addition to the bar a specialist bottling area was incorporated where guests could have their own personalised bottles prepared as part of their visit.

Lastly, we were asked to upgrade an existing cask warehouse at the Auchentoshan Distillery near Glasgow.  The client’s intention was to include the warehouse in the distillery tour but for presentational and health & safety reasons visitors were to be prevented.  The design required a traditional aesthetic look yet also had to comply with current DDA legislation.

We designed a ramped access, enclosed by a brick wall incorporating lighting features in the piers, which took design features from the main distillery.  Internally a viewing gallery was constructed to allow an overview of the entire warehouse.  The gallery incorporated an exhibit area which displayed a number of traditional tools used in the distillation process.