Wine Storehouse

A Cyclical Design for a Revival: Carmen Maurice’s Wine Storehouse in Brittany

Nestled amidst the rolling vineyards of Brittany, France, Carmen Maurice Architecture (CMA) has created a stunning new winery that embodies a cyclical design approach, reflecting the very process of winemaking itself. Called Wine Storehouse, this semi-circular structure is more than just a facility; it’s a celebration of the area’s winemaking heritage, marked by a 70-year hiatus before its recent revival.

Reviving a Legacy

Wine Storehouse was commissioned by the Commune de Sarzeau, the local municipality, to revive the region’s wine industry after it dwindled decades ago. CMA’s project pays homage to both the tradition and the modern approach to viniculture. The architects skillfully integrated the renovated old mill into the design, using it as a focal point.

—

A, CMA’s Architectural Innovation

The building’s unique semicircular design echoes the form of the already existing mill, creating a harmonious balance between old and new.

Function Meets Form

CMA’s design prioritizes both functionality and visibility, ensuring that grape processing flows seamlessly from north to south, mirroring the natural progression of winemaking. A vast underground chamber houses a fermentation room, cellar, and storage space, a testament to their commitment to a holistic experience. Key to this underground space is a "gravity-fed" system for grape press operations, ensuring quality preservation at every stage.

A Sustainable Statement

The Hanoi Restaurant

Addressing Brittany’s landscape, the exterior of the winery is clad in lime plaster created by local artisans using nearby beach sand. This choice not only emphasizes the connection to the coastal settings but also provides a dynamic, ever-changing texture, a visual reminder of the constant transformation that wine undergoes.