Commercial Building Project:
Township 23 Distillery | Custom Gambrel Post-Frame Venue
Nelson, Wisconsin
Project Overview:
Every great project starts with a dream. For Zach and Sam Hetrick, Township 23 Distillery was that dream brought to life.
After decades of organic dairy farming, the Hetrick family shifted their focus from livestock to crop farming, and eventually to craft distilling. Founded in 2022, Township 23 Distillery carries on the family’s farming legacy, transforming homegrown grains into small-batch spirits for their community.
The Distillery:
Walters Buildings partnered with the Hetricks to design and construct a 42′ x 74′ gambrel-style post-frame barn that beautifully blends agricultural heritage and modern hospitality. The black-and-white exterior pays homage to the farmstead’s past while the interior offers a warm, inviting space for guests to gather and enjoy handcrafted spirits made right on-site.
The front half of the building features a bar and tasting room with indoor seating and restrooms, while the back half serves as the production area where each spirit is distilled, bottled, and perfected. A gabled front entrance welcomes guests in, and a rear patio opens to stunning views of the Mississippi River bluffs, the perfect setting for a handcrafted cocktail and conversation.
Custom Features:
- Gambrel Roof Design: Traditional barn-inspired architecture reimagined for modern hospitality.
- Dual-Purpose Layout: Divided between guest tasting areas and full-scale distillery operations.
- Black & White Steel Exterior: 28-guage G-90 galvanized steel panels provide timeless contrast and long-term protection.
- Gabled Entry & Patio: Seamless transition between indoor and outdoor gathering spaces.
- Engineered Strength: STP laminated columns and 2400 MSR trusses ensure dependable durability.
- Functional Craftsmanship: Wash stations, drainage, and workspace designed for production efficiency.
Make it Your Own
This project demonstrates how Walters Buildings transforms agricultural heritage into contemporary commercial spaces. Whether you’re creating a distillery, winery, brewery, or event venue, Walters’ team of project managers, engineers, and designers collaborate with you to achieve both aesthetic vision and structural excellence.
Ideal Applications:
- Distilleries and wineries with integrated tasting rooms
- Farm-to-glass or farm-to-table commercial ventures
- Event spaces and gathering venues with production capability
- Custom post-frame buildings blending heritage and modern design
Why Walters Buildings:
- Purpose-Built Design: Tailored solutions for food, beverage, and hospitality operations.
- In-House Engineering: Ensures seamless construction and structural precision.
- Premium Materials: 28-gauge G-90 galvanized steel, engineered trusses, and the Walters Column System.
- Regional Expertise: Experienced teams familiar with rural landscapes, permitting and local code requirements.
- Trusted Partnership: Guiding clients from first concept to final pour.
Ready to Build Your Dream Venue?
Contact our commercial project management team today for a site-specific quote and start designing a space that celebrates craftsmanship, community, and lasting value.
