Glenmorangie’s New ‘Lighthouse’ is a Beacon of Design in The Highlands

The Glenmorangie Distillery, a cornerstone of Highland whisky-making since its founding in 1843, has embarked on a striking architectural evolution.

Following a competition launched in 2016, The Glenmorangie Company commissioned Paris-based practice Barthélémy Griño to design an extension that would redefine its historic site.

GALLERY  

At the heart of the design is a 20-metre tower, aptly named the Lighthouse, which stands as a beacon over the site.

Inspired by the old lighthouses of the Dornoch Firth, its transparent cubic form houses two of Scotland’s largest whisky stills, offering a contemporary interpretation of tradition. Throughout the day, the glazed facade mirrors the shifting Scottish sky, while wooden panels within subtly reference the oak casks used in whisky ageing. The result is a structure that seamlessly blends modernity with heritage.

Barthélémy Griño’s vision for the extension was twofold: to strip away industrial connotations and introduce a dynamic, kinetic architectural envelope. The Lighthouse not only accommodates monumental stills but also houses a laboratory for innovation and tasting, with sweeping views of the North Sea. A secondary, lower building harmonises with the existing warehouses, clad in traditional stone and slate to preserve the site’s visual integrity.

Due to the distillery’s remote location, conservation area status, and commitment to sustainability, material sourcing was carefully considered. The facade incorporates reclaimed stones from on-site demolitions, while slate and paving materials were sourced from nearby quarries. Meanwhile, metallic grating panels form the flooring to accommodate future functional evolutions. Strategically placed openings enhance natural ventilation in production areas, reinforcing the project’s environmentally conscious approach.

Beyond its aesthetic and functional impact, the extension encapsulates Glenmorangie’s ethos of craftsmanship and innovation. A portion of the facility is powered by biogas derived from the distillation process, underscoring the brand’s commitment to sustainability. More than an architectural statement, the new distillery spaces foster creativity, providing distillers with the freedom to experiment and refine their craft.

This ambitious transformation ensures that Glenmorangie remains at the forefront of whisky-making, balancing tradition with contemporary design to create a lasting legacy.

Images by Hélène Binet via Dezeen

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