Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Laverstoke Mill

The Bombay Sapphire Distillery and Visitor Centre is a remarkable development that combines new construction with retrofitting, transforming Laverstoke Mill into the home of Bombay Sapphire Gin. This Victorian mill complex, located in the beautiful Hampshire countryside, now supports the production, storage, and distribution of the globally recognised brand.

The site is nestled within an area of exceptional natural beauty, incorporating three listed buildings within a conservation area, alongside the SSSI River Test that flows at its core. While significant demolition of over 40 existing structures occurred, it was executed with care to respect the rural landscape and preserve historically merited buildings.

This project aims to set a benchmark in sustainable design and refurbishment, having achieved an impressive BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating at the design stage, marking it as the first refurbishment scheme to reach such a high standard. A variety of renewable energy strategies, including biomass, photovoltaics, and the restoration of an industrial water wheel for hydropower, are features of the development.

At the heart of the design are two striking botanical glasshouses by Thomas Heatherwick, which include interactive enclosures with varying humidity levels, showcasing Bombay Sapphire's unique selection of 10 botanicals used in their distillation process.

This innovative scheme has received recognition, being shortlisted in the Cultural Building category of the 2016 Retrofit Awards by the Architect's Journal. Architect’s Journal 2016 Retrofit Awards.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Building Design – Outstanding Rating for Gin Distillery

Basingstoke Gazette – Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Achieves ‘Outstanding’ From the BRE

Green Build News – Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Achieves BREEAM ‘Outstanding’

Business Green – Bombay Sapphire Mixes Cocktail of Renewables to Cut CO2