In Scotland, whiskey has a history that runs deep, and the new Macallan Distillery make a metaphorical connection regarding the spirit's relation to the land. The distillery, which was designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, is covered with earth and planted with local wildflowers, implying that whiskey is as tied to Scotland as the very earth upon which the nation sits.
Though the Macallan Distillery looks like a simple earthen building, that appearance belies its intense complexity. Dezeen reports that the building cost 140 million pounds, and its roof is constructed from 380,000 individual parts. The extravagance was necessary, as the building needed to conform to precise standards in order to properly house the whiskey stills that prepare the famous, highly sought after Scottish dram.
Wildflower Whiskey Roofs
The Macallan Distillery is Covered with Scottish Flora
Trend Themes
1. Eco-friendly Distilleries - Whiskey distilleries are incorporating environmentally-conscious designs, such as using local flora and fauna, to emphasize their connection to the land.
2. Luxury Construction Techniques - Due to precise standards required for whiskey production, distilleries are using expensive and complex building techniques to create structures that can properly house their whiskey stills.
3. Celebrating History Through Architecture - Distilleries are incorporating local and historical design elements to showcase their connection to the surrounding area and whiskey’s cultural significance.
Industry Implications
1. Alcohol and Spirits - Companies in the alcohol and spirits industry have opportunities to create environmentally-friendly distilleries that incorporate local flora and fauna to promote sustainability efforts.
2. Construction - Companies in the construction industry can expand their offerings by mastering complex and precise building techniques that cater to the specific requirements of the whiskey distilling process.
3. Architecture and Design - Architects and designers have opportunities to incorporate local and historical design elements into distillery projects, highlighting their connection to the surrounding area and cultural significance of whiskey.