Sourland Mountain Spirits – Adaptive Reuse of a Historic Barn
As a partner in the creation of Sourland Mountain Spirits, I helped lead the adaptive reuse of an aging agricultural barn into a fully functioning craft distillery rooted in place and tradition.
The project honored the integrity of the original timber structure while introducing the technical infrastructure required for modern distillation—process equipment, code-compliant egress, climate control, and hospitality spaces. Heavy timber framing was preserved and celebrated, creating an authentic industrial character that reflects both the agrarian history of the region and the craft ethos of small-batch spirits production.
The conversion balanced preservation with performance. Structural reinforcement, fire separation, and utility upgrades were carefully integrated so that the building’s past remained visible even as its purpose evolved. The result is a distillery that feels inevitable—as though the barn had simply been waiting for its next life.
More than a renovation, the project represents a philosophy: that rural architecture can be reimagined, that historic structures can support contemporary enterprise, and that thoughtful design can transform legacy into livelihood.
Morristown Estate – New Construction
This Morristown estate was conceived as a high-performance residence built with structural insulated panel (SIP) construction, combining energy efficiency with enduring craftsmanship. A stone-clad front entrance and refined copper detailing establish a sense of permanence and arrival, while the living room opens expansively to the rolling back fields beyond.
Designed to dissolve the boundary between inside and out, the home creates a seamless connection to the landscape—pairing architectural strength with openness, light, and long views.
Architect’s Home Addition – 2005
Originally a carriage barn converted to a residence in the 1950s, this 2005 addition reimagined the structure for contemporary living while honoring its historic character.
The project introduced a new living room opening onto a terrace, along with a master bedroom suite, carefully integrated into the existing building. Proportions, materials, and detailing were thoughtfully aligned so the addition feels seamless—an organic extension of the original barn rather than an imposition upon it.
Cape Conversion with Central Family Room
This Cape was taken down to its original foundation and thoughtfully rebuilt to create a more open, contemporary home. A new shingle-style front entry and covered porch establish a welcoming architectural presence while honoring traditional forms.
Inside, the kitchen serves as the heart of the house—flowing seamlessly into a central family room and opening directly onto the pool terrace. The result is a light-filled, connected living environment designed for gathering, movement, and indoor-outdoor living.
Brick Farm Tavern – Adaptive Reuse of a Historic Homestead
Set within a homestead dating to the Revolutionary War, Brick Farm Tavern was reimagined as a true farm-to-fork destination. The owner’s vision centered on honoring the property’s agricultural roots while creating a warm, welcoming tavern grounded in authenticity.
Carefully detailed stonework complements the original brick structure, reinforcing its historic character. Inside, a full restaurant-grade kitchen supports a seasonal menu alongside craft spirits and local beers—bringing together heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary hospitality in one cohesive setting.
Historic Ralph Baun Residence – Renovation & Addition
The careful conversion and expansion of this historic Ralph Baun residence balanced preservation with thoughtful new intervention. A sculptural stair tower addition introduces vertical circulation and light, while a stone connector elegantly links the main house to a new gabled garage.
Overlooking Stony Brook, the design responds to its natural setting with restraint and clarity. Interior spaces were shaped with particular attention to the owners’ art collection, incorporating controlled lighting, generous wall planes, and curated sightlines to create a home that functions as both residence and gallery.
Coastal Estate Residence – New Construction & Restoration
Set within a historic Olmsted-designed landscape, this new coastal home was conceived as a timeless addition to a storied estate. The residence features an elegant stone fireplace, a swooping slate roof, refined copper detailing, and expansive mahogany decking that embraces views to the water. A 60-foot boathouse anchors the shoreline, reinforcing the property’s maritime character.
The accompanying bathhouse was fully refurbished, including a new bay window, expanded deck, and thoughtfully redesigned changing rooms—bringing renewed vitality to the waterfront while honoring the estate’s historic pedigree.
Adaptive Reuse of the Michael Graves Showroom
The former household products showroom of Michael Graves was thoughtfully converted into law offices and two residential apartments, giving new life to a space rooted in design legacy. Navigating strict zoning constraints, we strategically maximized the allowable FAR while maintaining architectural integrity.
A carefully scaled addition expanded the building’s capacity and presence, seamlessly integrating old and new. The result—praised by the local paper—demonstrates how disciplined planning and thoughtful design can transform a commercial interior into a vibrant mixed-use property.

Dismal Harmony Distillery – Adaptive Reuse
Dismal Harmony Distillery was conceived as a craft distillery rooted in history, with the owner drawing inspiration from historic recipes to produce distinctive, small-batch spirits.
The project transformed a former auto parts store into a vibrant, welcoming tasting room and production space. Through thoughtful design and careful detailing, the industrial shell was reimagined as a warm gathering place—quickly embraced by the Morristown community as both a destination and a neighborhood anchor.
A Princeton modern house characterized by sleek design, clean lines, and open spaces. It incorporates large windows to bring in natural light, minimalist interior elements, and a focus on functionality.
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We focus on the client with the sole purpose of providing the best service and value.
In the last five years we segued into hospitality and distillery design.
We always put the client first. Clear communication is the key to our success.
Morgan Atelier Architecture
23 Orchard Road Skillman, NJ 08558 US & 98 Maine Street, Brunswick,ME 04011 US