THE architects behind a Scottish distillery which reopened earlier this year have picked up a prestigious award.
Edinburgh-based architecture and design firm MLA won the best leisure project category at the Architectural Journal (AJ) awards for Rosebank Distillery.
We told in June how the distillery, based in Falkirk, was reopening to the public after more than 30 years of closure.
Rosebank also picked up the Editor’s Choice award with judges commenting: “Retaining community as an important part of the building’s history is what made this winning project stand out.”
Established in 1840, the distillery was known as the “king of the lowlands” but a combination of factors, including recessions and a reduction in whisky consumption, led to its closure in 1993.
It was abandoned and fell into disrepair but was acquired by Ian MacLeod distillers in 2019 and reopened this year.
Director at MLA Garth Fitzsimons commented: “Absolutely delighted for the team to receive such amazing recognition from the AJ.
“It was a particular honour and surprise to be awarded the Editor’s Choice, given the calibre of other shortlisted projects.
“Brilliant client, superb team and a project we are all proud of.”
The firm’s chairman and head of design Jeremy Scott meanwhile praised Ian MacLeod for its “dedication, ambition and understanding” of the project to restore the distillery.
Director at Ian MacLeod Distillers Mike Younger said: “Ian MacLeod Distillers took Rosebank to its heart and set out to honour the site, value its deep heritage and create a building the community would be proud of.
“The result is a fantastic structure we can all celebrate, enjoy and use. We are grateful to everyone who helped with its delivery.”
