Glass Gives Brewery a Taste of the Beach

Ballast Point Brewing Co. recently opened a 11,427-square-foot tasting room and kitchen in Long Beach, Calif. Glass is a critical element for the new tasting room, which has three separate bars on two levels, a 15-barrel brewhouse and panoramic views of Alamitos Bay.

Smith Consulting Architects designed the project, which uses a large amount of glass and for both views and aesthetics. CRL-U.S. Aluminum provided various types of glazing systems for the project, and San Diego-based Complete Glass Service handled the installation.

“Our wide range of glazing products lets project teams rely on a single trusted manufacturer to supply the systems they need, which simplifies logistics,” says Paul Daniels, senior vice president of sales at CRL.

The entrances feature CRL’s DRS door rail system, which uses the company’s wedge-lock technology to secure the glass, and Blumcraft panic handles. Wedge-Lock works by applying pressure evenly along both sides of the glass. This produces steadfast holding power and expedites installation, according to CRL.

Select interior areas, including a wheelchair accessible ramp, use CRL’s GRS Taper-Loc glass railing system, which is the only ICC-ES approved railing system in the market, according to the company.

The exterior of the building features two stairways that lead to the second level deck and use CRL’s SRS standoff railing system. The first level of the building envelope is outfitted with the Series 451-S center glaze storefront system, which offers floor-to-ceiling views of the adjacent marina.

For protection from the elements, outside seating areas are lined with CRL AWS windscreens. The windscreens incorporate large glass lites with minimal aluminum framing to preserve the sweeping views of Alamitos Bay while acting as a barrier against air currents. The bar that services the outdoor area features the Monterey bi-folding window system. Panels stack to the side, creating a large opening that lets fresh air in and gives patio customers bar access.

“The new Ballast Point Tasting Room and Kitchen highlights our fabrication capabilities, comprehensive product offering, and ability to work with customers to provide single-source solutions,” says Daniels.