2025 AIA KY Merit Award - The Last Refuge

Belknap School Conversion

Architect of Record: Joseph & Joseph Architects

Interior Designer: Amanda Jacobs Design

Structural Engineer: Structural Services, Inc

Landscape Architect: Joseph & Joseph Architects

Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: KCC Mechanical | Hill’s Electric

General Contractor: Bosse Construction

Developer: Weyland Ventures

Owner: Heaven’s Door

Location: Louisville, KY

Category: Additions/Renovations/Restoration: less than $5M

Joseph & Joseph Architects Website

Exterior Photos by: Jeremy Blum Photo & Video | Joseph & Joseph Architects
Interior Photos by: Lang Photography | Joseph & Joseph Architects

The Last Refuge in Louisville, KY is a cocktail bar and brand home for Heaven’s Door Bourbon, crafted to embody the spirit of artistry, authenticity, and refuge. The space seamlessly blends Louisville’s historic fabric with modern elegance. The thoughtful interior design brings warmth and soul, using rich materials and intimate lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. More than a bar, The Last Refuge is a destination – offering immersive bourbon experiences, curated cocktails, and a connection to the Heaven’s Door story.

Additional Information

“This project exemplifies good urban stewardship by thoughtfully preserving an historic civic building and adapting it to support contemporary city life. It demonstrates a commendable commitment to maintaining cultural and architectural character while creatively addressing complex issues such as accessibility and adaptive reuse. The gatehouse addition provides necessary functionality – enclosing the courtyard, completing the street edge, and improving access – though it might have better reflected the original building’s character. Preserving such architecture not only honors the city’s heritage but also contributes to sustainability by lowering the carbon footprint. This is a meaningful contribution to the urban fabric and the life of the neighborhood.” -Jury Comments

Jury

Michael Watkins, FAIA, Principal, Michael Watkins Architect LLC, Gaithersburg, MD (Jury Chair)
Mark Ferguson, AIA, Founding Partner, Ferguson & Shamanian Architects, New York, NY
Alanna Gladney, AIA, Associate, Bonstra | Haresign Architects, Washington, DC
Ellen Hatton, AIA, Principal BarnesVanze Architects, Washington, DC
John Torti, FAIA, Founding Principal, Torti Gallas + Partners, Washington, DC