A Whiskey Factory In Philadelphia Was Converted Into Your Next Weekend Getaway

A former 19th-century whiskey factory in Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood is now a cool place to spend the night.

"We wanted it to feel somewhat residential, almost like it's someone's apartment," co-owner Randy Cook said about Wm. Mulherin's Sons, a dual-concept property that features a four-room hotel and an Italian restaurant.

When Cook and the two other owners came across the site, they saw it as a way to draw attention to the storied history of the building and its locale. It still had many original details that they wanted to preserve — including arched windows that date to the 1920s and aged brick on the exterior — they just needed to be intertwined with more modern features.

The founders turned to artist Stacey Rozich to meet these classic touches with a more contemporary eye, and she created a whimsical hand-painted mural in the restaurant as well as toile wallpaper in the rooms. Custom furnishings were created by Tim Lewis Studio, which complement other natural wood touches meant to evoke a simple, almost Nordic state of mind. Now guests can step comfortably into the past, whether it's to dine or sleep.

1. Exterior

Behind this unassuming brick exterior is the ground-floor Italian restaurant, which opened last year. The upstairs hotel opened in the spring — and guests can check in with the restaurant staff.

2. Guest Room

Matthew Williams

Each of the guest rooms feature accents that speak to the building's industrial roots. In this room, a bed with a walnut headboard complements the abundance of wood on the walls and ceiling.

3. Guest Room

Matthew Williams

In this guest room, brass detailing is the main feature. A light fixture by Jason Miller, sourced through Roll & Hill, "adds a different vibe to the place so it doesn't feel contrived," Cook said.

4. Guest Room

Matthew Williams

This guest room features a living area with a striking blue leather couch.

5. Bathroom

Matthew Williams

Minimalist bathrooms feature clawfoot tubs — another design detail carried over from the 19th century — and cement details.

6. Bathroom

Matthew Williams

Cement detailing, like on this sink, offers up a modern touch, while the wood cabinets are in keeping with traditional accents.