DISCUS Opens New Office
Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. has moved to 101 Constitution Ave. on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the commercial office space closest to the U.S. Capitol.
The new headquarters pays homage to the rich history of the spirits industry and takes guests on a journey into the world of spirits with design elements highlighting the heritage, craftmanship and agricultural foundations of spirits products.
Guests have an opportunity to view rare historical artifacts in the reception area, including a letter penned by George Washington in 1799 about his successful distillery operation at Mount Vernon, and a 1776 Continental Army Commissary List, which detailed liquor accounts for General George Washington and several other Continental officers.
Special spirits-related themes are featured throughout the office. Illustrations of agriculture, stills, barrels and aging warehouses depict the distillation process from field to glass, and a wall showcasing a wide-range of jobs from farmers to distillers to bartenders underscores the spirits industry’s significant economic contributions.
To symbolize the transition from distilling to the consumer cocktail experience, guests walk through an archway shaped like a spirits bottle leading to a spacious entertaining area with a magnificent 30-foot tiled bar complemented with stools, cocktail booths and lounge seating.
The cocktail area features unique touches including pendant light fixtures crafted with glass decanters and a “photo wall” with more than 40 barrel tops to foster a spirit of camaraderie.
The entertaining space can accommodate up to 200 people and has unparalleled views of the Capitol dome. Other organizations and companies can use the entertaining space and executive boardroom for work receptions, meetings and thought leader forums.
Given Swonger’s dual role as head of DISCUS and Responsibility.org, the non-profit organization dedicated to alcohol responsibility,and the numerous shared members, Responsibility.org has office space on the same floor as DISCUS. The DISCUS and Responsibility.org workspaces are filled with phone rooms, team and conference rooms, offices, sit/stand desks and lounge furniture allowing staff members to choose their preferred working environment.
“Our new office celebrates the vibrant cocktail culture in the U.S. and the importance of the hospitality industry,” said Swonger. “We set out to create a workplace where our team feels inspired every time they walk into the office, and our guests have an unforgettable experience and a deeper appreciation for spirits.”