Washington, DC has welcomed its first distillery with the launch of District Distilling Co. Local firm GrizForm Design Architects led the transformation of three two-story row houses from the 19th century into a contemporary, multifunctional space that celebrates the art of distilling.
The venue evokes industrial elegance with modern, custom German still equipment. The stainless steel and copper machinery stand alongside rustic elements, such as oak aging barrels, exposed brick, and antiquated gray herringbone wood floors.
Guests are greeted by a retail store, clad with copper piping and shelves crafted from salvaged and stained American white oak. Dark wood flooring complements black wainscot walls and contrasts with the room’s neutral palette. The store is also equipped with a large picture window that overlooks the distillery. Made from polished copper and stainless steel accents, a 30-foot-tall vodka stills soar through an opening between the lower level distillery and upper bar. The machinery is uplit to accentuate its depth and the elegance of the raw metal.
Beyond the store, a large wooden staircase lined with black beadboard walls leads to the onsite restaurant and bar, both of which exude century-old neoclassical ceiling joists and exposed brick. Copper, beadboard, and herringbone elements are featured in these spaces as well. The first dining room is outfitted with dark green leather booths and walnut chairs with gray leather seats, while a large French oak barrel wrapped in brick leads to a private dining space. Featuring a deep blue banquette, antique mirrors, twinkling string lights, and custom wall graphics, the chef’s table also offers a glimpse into the kitchen.
