Who Wants To Go Wine Tasting At This Amazing Space In Napa Valley?

Picture this – a chilled glass of wine in hand, panoramic views over beautiful, unspoilt woodland, the sun on your face… sound good? Visit the newly designed wine pavilions at Quintessa Estate, and this could be a reality. You’ll be treated to the finest wines in the world, in a picturesque Napa Valley setting, thanks to Walker Warner Architects.

In fact, the pavilions are so good that the firm behind the design has been awarded a prestigious Citation Award from the American Institute of Architects San Francisco (AIA SF) for the new Quintessa Pavilions.

The company actually created the original 280-acre Quintessa Estate Winery back in 2003, with this new project designed to replicate the same sensitive approach and connection to its breathtaking surroundings. Walker Warner Architects’ principal Mike McCabe explained: ‘The Quintessa Pavilions embody our belief in the essential connection of design to its context, particularly nature.’

They’ve been cleverly designed to simultaneously connect guests with the landscape beyond, providing uninterrupted views over the estate, while also protecting visitors from the elements, so that they can be used year round.

The 250-square-foot pavilions are nestled discreetly among the oak trees, with materials chosen for their sustainability and ability blend into the natural habitat, weathering elegantly as time passes.

A striking angular design was chosen, with a board-marked concrete wall forming the entry to the pavilion, creating anticipation before the big reveal of the stunning vineyard view. Huge floor-to-ceiling glazing on pivoting doors allows guests to view the estate in all its glory, whatever the weather, while a generous roof overhang provides a protected terrace area made of local stone.

The warm-toned timber ceilings are made of reclaimed Sinker cypress, while bespoke furnishings are created from FSC-certified Afromosi. The landscaping around the pavilions has also been carefully considered, with native grasses planted to help the new additions blend further into the vineyards.

About the author

Charlotte Luxford

Architecture & Design Editor

As Culture Trip's architecture and design expert, Charlotte has more than 12 years' industry experience, working for an array of national publications. Prior to joining Culture Trip, Charlotte was the editor of Grand Designs Magazine, steering the magazine in a new direction and overseeing a new look for the title. She has also worked for mass media organisation TI Media, providing content for Livingetc, Ideal Home, Country Homes & Interiors and Homes & Gardens. Charlotte has always had a passion for design and is also a qualified interior designer, having completed a diploma in her spare time. At Culture Trip, Charlotte has worked closely with institutions including the Design Museum and London Design Festival, as well as interviewing design heroes such as Thomas Heatherwick and Sir Terence Conran.