Description
The winery is located in the village of Mesi, near Rethymno, Crete, and occupies a total area of 502 sq.m. The project is conceived as a multipurpose interior environment where wine production, storage, retail, and hospitality are brought together through a clear and legible architectural system.
At the core of the design lies a linear wooden structure that organizes the entire spatial arrangement. This continuous element functions simultaneously as spatial divider, storage infrastructure, and architectural identity. Extending throughout the length of the building, the structure accommodates wine display cases for the shop, integrated storage spaces, and the housing of wine barrels, forming a unified system that supports both the operational and experiential aspects of the winery.
Public functions are concentrated along one side of the structure and include the cafeteria, tasting area, and retail shop. These spaces are conceived as an open and inviting environment, characterized by warm materiality and a strong visual connection to the wine cellar. A glazed partition located behind the bar establishes a controlled visual dialogue between tasting and storage, allowing visitors to experience the process of aging and preservation without entering the production zone.
Secondary functions such as the distillery and the kitchen are positioned behind the wooden structure and remain inaccessible to the public. Their complete visual separation ensures operational efficiency while maintaining a calm and focused atmosphere within the visitor areas. The linear organization allows for clear circulation, intuitive orientation, and a distinct hierarchy between public and back-of-house spaces.
Wood is employed as the dominant material, shaping both the architectural language and the sensory experience of the interior. Custom shelving, integrated lighting, and ceiling elements reinforce the continuity of the wooden system, while metal mesh and glass introduce transparency and depth. Natural light filters through the space and interacts with the timber surfaces, enhancing the tactile quality of the materials and reinforcing the relationship between architecture and wine culture.
The project explores the idea of architecture as an infrastructural framework rather than a series of isolated rooms. Through the use of a single, multifunctional element, the winery achieves spatial clarity, flexibility, and a strong identity, offering visitors an immersive yet controlled experience that reflects the ritual, craftsmanship, and atmosphere of winemaking.
