GROUND* OF THE PLACE
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*ground: noun (CAUSE) a reason, cause, or argument.
Is it possible to design and build a modern complex without breaking the continuity of the landscape? Can we propose an architecture that is not derived from a place (the conventional approach), but instead becomes a means through which the place is rediscovered and redefined? An architecture that does not grow out of the site, but grows into it, without breaking the context established over the centuries, without oppressing the genius loci? Our project for Podere Fedespina is an attempt to answer these questions, a kind of evidence of place. We tried to find an infinitely large distance that allowed us to work on the closest thing we could find.
tasting room view
• MASTERPLAN
The new vinery complex follows the natural movement of the topology of the site and grows out of it with its volumes. Its contours emerge from the land like an archaeological monument, without confronting the existing historic buildings. All functions are hidden a level below the main road of the estate. The complex is oriented to the sides of the world: the North-South axis faces the mountains and the East-West axis leads to the vineyards.
• PROGRAM
The building’s design is characterized by a sequence of compact functional blocks, which are connected by an enfilade passage. These blocks can be described as Piazza-Restaurant-Tasting Room-Offices.
• LIGHT and SCENERY
Despite the fact that the main volume is buried in the hill, the spaces are designed to allow the direct morning and sunset rays of the sun to shine through, casting shadows of tree leaves growing on rooftop on the interior walls and floor. At the same time, the spaces are designed to maintain a comfortable coolness during a hot Italian afternoon. The main halls offer panoramic views of the mountain landscape. From the square, the historic buildings of the estate are clearly visible, towering above the field of new vineyards.
• MATERIALITY
Rammed concrete is the primary material for the walls, along with natural local stone in two shades and galvanized steel elements. The textured ceiling slab, with its rough, earthy finish, evokes the natural terrain and soil of the surrounding landscape from which it emerges.
cafe view from piazza
• LIFE and EVENTS
The Piazza functional block combines a Lobby volume, a Shop and an open corner square. The arrangement of these volumes, along with the ability to fully open the glazed facade walls, allows for a variety of scenarios and uses, making the complex a versatile event space.
• LANDSCAPE
From the level of the main road (a) on the site, visitors can access two new small parks located on the green roofs of the complex. In these parks, visitors can discover fully functional sculptural elements, such as a hearth tower (b), a table ruin (e), and an oculus-table (c). In the east of the site there is a small area (d) where temporary pavilions and installations can be built.
exhibition in lobby
a. Main road
b. Hearth tower
c. Oculus-table
d. Playground
e. Table ruin
f. Path to vineyards
