The renovation involved converting a former auto repair shop into a modern distillery, integrated with a newly constructed restaurant. Both structures share a versatile outdoor courtyard space, enhancing the site's communal atmosphere. Additionally, the site shares parking facilities with the neighboring Escape Brewery, which occupies the historic Trolley Storage House Building. This collaboration fosters a sense of community and maximizes the utility of the available space.

One of the project's primary challenges was harmonizing the old and new buildings, particularly due to the area's floodplain requirements, which necessitated an elevated finish floor for the new construction. The design also needed to complement the historic brick neighbor without mimicking it, preserving the unique character of both structures. The site design was meticulously planned to accommodate the operational needs of both the distillery and the restaurant, ensuring flexibility and shared use of the facilities.

The restaurant's design plays a pivotal role, capitalizing on its prominent location at the intersection of Eureka and Oriental Avenue. The building features glazed overhead doors that blend indoor and outdoor seating areas, creating a fluid and inviting environment. Generous landscaping enhances the aesthetic appeal and integrates the space into the surrounding urban fabric. The bar, strategically positioned beneath a tall, open volume, allows natural light to flood the space. This central location not only highlights the owner’s products but also creates a vibrant focal point within the building.

Architecturally, both buildings draw inspiration from agrarian and industrial themes, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Packing House District. The interior design features exposed custom trusses, ambient lighting, and steel detailing that harmoniously blends the interior with the exterior, continuing the agrarian-themed design.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project, with several key features incorporated to reduce its environmental impact. Photovoltaic panels are installed on the roofs of both buildings, providing renewable energy sources. High-efficiency fixtures and a reclaimed water irrigation system further enhance the site's sustainability credentials. The design also includes protection for glazed fenestrations through the use of patios and outdoor dining areas, as well as the use of recycled materials in select systems.

The J. Riley Distillery project is a remarkable example of adaptive reuse that successfully merges historical preservation with modern functionality and sustainability. By transforming a former auto repair building into a vibrant distillery and restaurant space, the project revitalizes a key area within the Redlands Packing House District, creating a dynamic and sustainable destination that celebrates both the past and future of the community.