Middle West Spirits Distillery Expansion by Jonathan Barnes Architecture and Design

Revitalizing a Historic Warehouse

In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, Middle West Spirits transformed its 1920s-era warehouse into a bold new architectural landmark. Designed by Jonathan Barnes Architecture and Design, the project balances historic preservation with contemporary industrial design, creating a facility that is both functional and iconic.

Expanding Craft Distillation

The distillery’s rapid growth required larger equipment, including 50-foot and 35-foot copper stills, expansive mashing tanks, and specialized production facilities. To support this scale, the architects reimagined the warehouse, combining industrial engineering with innovative design to house both production and public spaces.

A Towering Architectural Intervention

To accommodate the new stills, part of the original steel bow truss and wood roof was removed. In its place, a 50-foot tiered steel structure was inserted, forming the centerpiece of the expansion. Clad in Kalwall® translucent panels, the structure creates a monolithic white tower—subtle by day and a glowing beacon by night, redefining the neighborhood skyline.

Public Spaces and Tasting Experience

The tasting room and private event space combine old and new, featuring exposed ceilings, skylights, and an antique bar. Large folding glass panels open onto a street-side patio, seamlessly connecting the distillery with the vibrant Columbus entertainment district.

Industrial Precision Behind the Scenes

Beyond the public spaces, the production areas showcase industrial architecture at its best. Multi-level steel mezzanines rise around the stills, providing operational access and pathways for public tours. The second-floor education space extends outward with a frameless glass window, offering urban views and reinforcing the connection between the distillery and the city.

Complex Construction Challenges

Construction demanded ingenuity. A massive roof opening allowed the assembly of five stories of structural steel inside the warehouse. Once completed, towering stills were lowered into place by crane with only inches to spare. The facility, classified as high-hazard, incorporates blast walls, explosion-proof lighting, and advanced safety systems to ensure both performance and protection.

The Concept of a “Parabuilding”

The new tower exemplifies the concept of a parabuilding—an addition that attaches to an existing structure while redefining its identity. The scale-less tower contrasts with the historic warehouse yet remains in dialogue with it, symbolizing transformation and continuity.

More Than a Distillery

Middle West Spirits is not just about craft spirits; it is a cultural landmark where architecture, community, and brand identity converge. The project demonstrates how adaptive reuse and contemporary design can enrich urban life, transforming an industrial relic into a beacon of culture, craft, and innovation.