hilltop winery by bar architects frames views of the californian landscape

hilltop winery by bar architects frames views of the californian landscape
all images by doug dun

with a growing portfolio of winery programs, bar architects have completed their latest project for law winery, established on a 55-acre site near paso robles in california. the hilltop estate has a 360-degree panoramic view of the combination of coastal and country landscape. allowing the landscape speak for itself, the scheme is based on a straightforward floor plan with multiple floors which accommodate the small-lot production and experimentation of the huge variety of wine produced. analyzing the surrounding topography, the property’s slopes and ridge lines were took into consideration while planning the indoor and outdoor spaces- so the best views and experience can be achieved.

the winery is based on the hilltop overlooking the coastal and countryside landscape

the resulting design is minimal, focusing on showcasing the existing characteristics of each varietal and terroir. characterized by a dramatically sloped roof, the building uses natural materials which blend with the rich surroundings, a mix of corten, timber, and concrete. internally, the generous spaces open up to overlook the rolling hills and valley, all of which is influenced and responds to the movement of the sun and direction of the wind.

inside the dining room

the generous space opens up to views across the valley

using the topography, the outdoor spaces were orientated to take full advantage of the surroundings

outdoor space with fire pit

the winery at night


the private tasting room



metal fins outline the exterior

corten cladding seen on the exterior

the small-lot production and experimentation produces up to an anticipated 10,000-cases of wine at full build-out

the winery is based in the paso robles region

project info:

client: law estate vineyards
architect: bar architects
general contractor: specialty construction, inc.
landscape: lutsko associates
site area: 55 acres

project components

10,000-case capacity winery
crush, fermentation & barrel storage areas
winemaking offices lab
employee break room
retail warehouse & direct shipping office
public tasting/retail sales room
private tasting area & banquet room
catering/demonstration kitchen
administrative offices
three guest units