Project Description
The project involved the creation of a brand-new distillery in Bardstown, KY, featuring public spaces such as a taproom, gift shop, and restrooms. The bar design was particularly unique, with the front of the bar and the back bar wall crafted from #3 common white oak, finished using a Japanese-inspired technique that combines charred wood with white paint. A local metalworker supplied and installed the copper bar top, adding a warm, rustic element to the space.
Leininger collaborated with a variety of vendors to source specialized materials for the job. The black wood finish, known as Shou Sugi Ban, was achieved by charring the white oak in a process similar to the inside of a bourbon barrel. To prevent the char from spreading onto other surfaces, the wood was coated with a clear sealant. The project was both challenging and rewarding, providing an opportunity to explore new techniques and apply creative solutions.
