Our approach to crafting a unique office space for the great-great-granddaughter and fifth-generation master distiller of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey started with a single question. That question was simple yet profound: How can we weave together multiple narratives within a single space, encapsulating both legacy and personal journey?
Our Solution
- A Generational Story: As visitors move through the space, they will experience the generational legacy of the Master Blender in a directional flow, guiding them through history.
- A Personal Narrative: We made sure to highlight the Master Blender’s individual journey, allowing her story to resonate within the design.
- A Hidden Story: For select visitors, we integrated a secret narrative about the Master Blender’s sorority, adding an intimate layer to the experience.
Upon entering the space, guests are welcomed by a striking staircase adorned with the phrase, “Whiskey 160 Years in the Making.” Ascending these stairs, they encounter a wall proudly proclaiming, “Preserving the Legacy of Nearest Green for Generations.” This journey culminates at the Master Blender’s desk, where her origin story is elegantly displayed behind her chair.
Conversely, from her desk, we begin with the legacy she now carries, represented through thoughtful design elements. As she rises from her chair, visitors are met with an artistic portrayal of her grandmother—her steadfast rock and calming influence throughout her life.
To further enrich the narrative, we introduced a hidden homage to the Master Blender’s sorority within the overall design. Rather than opting for an overt feature, we chose to start with an abstract painting of her sorority’s official flower. This inspired the entire color palette of the space, influencing our selection of furniture, rugs, and accent pillows.
Finally, I created a custom art piece consisting of 22 interlinked circles, representing the 22 founders of her sorority. This piece serves as a meaningful touchpoint that she can share with her sorority sisters during visits and meetings.
In essence, this design is not just a workspace; it’s a living narrative—one that honors tradition while celebrating the personal journey of the Master Blender. It’s a space where every detail speaks to the stories that have shaped her and the legacy she continues to carry forward.
