Château Gruaud-Larose in the Saint Julien appellation of Bordeaux has been producing Grand Cru wines since the 18th century. Four families have passed on their tradition and success in cultivating the 82 hectare vineyard to produce wine of the highest quality.
A recent addition to the local terrain has raised the odd eyebrow. Architects Lanoire & Courrian were asked by the owners to design a new building to sit alongside the existing 18th century Château to house a visitor centre, boutique and tasting room.
The long low rectangular building set into a natural slope aims to make the most of the expansive view of parkland and famous vineyards. Constructed predominately out of steel and glass and topped by a green roof it succeeds in blending with the terrain. This is counterbalanced by a 21 metre observation tower on the edge of the site. Shimmering in its metallic facade and internal network of galvanized steel, the tower provides breathtaking views of the vineyards and the nearby Gironde estuary.
Architect: Lanoire and Courrian Architects
Image: Arthur Péquin
Posted on July 23, 2015 by untitled
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