Schimenti Construction Co.

Scope Of Work

This whiskey distillery located on a historic site is the first of its kind in Manhattan since the advent of Prohibition in 1920. Encompassing five levels and just over 25K SF, the project includes a fully operational distillery, two complete kitchens, event space, main floor restaurant, multiple bars, three elevator cars, feature staircases, and a VIP Lounge. This functioning distillery uses 100% New York-sourced grains in its craft whiskeys and serves cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients.

The standout feature of the space is a 500-gallon copper still. Due to complex NYC zoning regulations, this building was classified as an M1-5, one of only 120 buildings in Manhattan that conform to the requirements for an alcohol distillation permit. NYC regulations prohibit stills from being installed above the second floor. In order to accommodate the design and permitting requirements, Schimenti lowered the floor by 5 feet, allowing space for the massive still and the installation of a 2-story, explosion-proof glass chamber enclosing the still.

The scope included custom tile and wood floors, high-end millwork, and bespoke lighting and wall finishes. Completed during the complex environment of COVID-19, this engineering feat took over five years from inception, from complex NYC approval processes through to close-out.