The University of Kentucky James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits (JBBI) and the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s Cooper House were recognized for excellence in architectural design by the Kentucky Society of Architects, or AIA Kentucky, a chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

The Cooper House, the former home of Martin-Gatton CAFE Dean Thomas Poe Cooper, received a merit award for additions and/or restorations totaling less than $5 million, while the Beam Institute received an award for new construction totaling less than $10 million. 

“The Cooper House is a beautifully detailed 1880s building carefully restored to serve as a welcoming visitor center,” said the AIA Kentucky Jury’s comments. “The building received ‘just the right amount’ of renovation and reinterpretation.” 

The Cooper House restoration was led by Lord Aeck Sargent Planning and Design. It was constructed around 1865 and inhabited by Cooper throughout his 33-year tenure as Dean. At the time of his deanship, the home was surrounded by the UK research farm. 

“Our college is known for its innovation, leadership, service and commitment to improving the lives of Kentuckians. Equally important, our college is known for being a family,” said Carmen Agouridis, senior associate dean for instruction at Martin-Gatton CAFE. “I can’t think of a better example of this than the restored Cooper House and new James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits facilities. The Cooper House is the front door to the college and is where we welcome prospective students. Only a few yards away, JBBI is leading the way in research and workforce development for one of Kentucky’s signature industries.” 

“The James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits places two complimentary structures in the composition,” the Jury adds continues. “Rendered in metal and stone, these buildings express permanence and a relationship to each other in this grouping of buildings. Through tall glass panels we get a glimpse inside of each to see the core of their purpose and invite us to venture in.” 

The Beam Institute was created by Joseph and Joseph Architects. The on-campus distillery and learning center opened its doors officially in 2023, welcoming students to learn tactical skills to carry them through a career in the spirits industry. 

“Having Joseph and Joseph Architects build the Institute harnessed over a century’s worth of knowledge in distillery design and building,” said Seth DeBolt, director of JBBI. “Their team is unmatched in this space, not to mention they are UK alums and cared deeply about the success and quality of the project. All this is reflected in a building that merges learning and functionality, and it is why the Beam Institute is transformational for spirits education in the United States.” 

For more information on the Cooper House restoration, visit https://staging.lordaecksargent.com/portfolio/featured/uk-cooper-house. For more information on the Beam Institute, visit https://beaminstitute.ca.uky.edu/. 

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