Sto Render System for new Museum and Whisky Distillery

Whiskey connoisseurs can now enjoy a favourite tipple at the new Ad Gefrin whisky distillery and visitor centre in Wooler, which has been completed externally with a Sto render system.

Ad Gefrin opened its doors to visitors in March 2023 to showcase the unique heritage, ancient hospitality, and contemporary crafts, arts and produce of Northumberland and re-awaken the Northumbrian tradition for Whisky distilling that has slept for over 200 years.

The StoRend Flex Cote render system was specified for use on the facades of the new buildings by Elphick Associates, to provide maximum crack resistance, weatherproofing and fade resistance. Using the highest quality materials, StoArmat Classic Plus is a cement-free, acrylic resin-based reinforcing coat, and up to 15 times more flexible than traditional cement-based reinforcing coats, providing exceptional levels of crack resistance with the embedded Sto Glass Fibre strengthening mesh. The system, installed by Edendene Construction Services Ltd, was finished with an attractive, low-maintenance, white StoSilco render, which will keep its good looks for years to come. 

StoDécor Flex, a mesh-reinforced system comprising of StoDecosit interior plaster onto StoVentec carrier board was also applied to some internal areas of the building to match the smooth, white exterior of the buildings. StoDecosit combines the best properties of

emulsion-based plasters and silicate plasters in a single product and is suitable for decorating walls to protect against mould and mildew, and for walls in heavy-use areas.

Ad Gefrin is a family run business and this outstanding visitor experience includes a distillery, museum, bistro, and shop, and is also helping to deliver economic growth to the local and wider communities of Glendale.

Client: Ad Gefrin

Design: Elphick Associates

Sto Applicator: Edendene Construction Services Ltd

Contractor: Brims Construction Ltd

Sto Expertise: StoRend Flex Cote Render system (externally), StoDécor Flex (internally)

Photography: Sally Ann Norman Photography