From Rural Vastness to Urban Intimacy

Abstract

To define a winery, simply as a facility of winemaking, disregards the industry’s most recent and significant developments. Around the world, wine producers have recognised the business potential of wineries as they develop into popular visitor attractions, for not only wine enthusiasts, but those seeking a retreat-like experience in the vastness of the natural landscape. This thesis explores the attraction of wineries, along with the connection consumers have with production. It proposes to challenge the preconceived expectations of the experience of wineries, by developing a winery in a central Wellington location.

As no problem is suggested within either the winery industry or field of architecture, this thesis deals with the issues that arise from shifting a typology, from a vast rural setting, to the intimacy of the city. In addition, the research builds upon the architectural body of knowledge, surrounding quality and dynamic spaces in the urban context.

Observations of New Zealand wineries highlighted the significance of the natural setting, and presence of wine production, on the visitor’s holistic experience. In a bid to provide an authentic destination, this thesis utilises natural elements and the integration of the winemaking process, as a framework for design. This thesis therefore argues, that through design, a balance can be found between three conflicting areas of investigation. These areas being the urban context, the presence of natural features, and the integration of production. Each on their own dictate guidelines for design however, this thesis argues that collectively, a retreat-like experience can be achieved within the sensorial intensity of the city.