Set on Crystal Springs Road in St. Helena, this project is the product of a partnership between Memento Mori founder Hayes Drumwright and renowned winemaker Sam Kaplan. Started by family and friends, Vida Valiente translates to “brave life,” and symbolizes a celebration of life, courage and the strength of new beginnings.
Vida Valiente Winery
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Vida Valiente Winery
St. Helena, CA
Our design for this special project is a reflection of the elements that drive the Vida Valiente brand.
In the design process, we explored the intersection between people, brand, land and vineyard to create an architectural expression of the flow of wine and of life. Our approach can be summarized by the phrase “Vita Valiente” – life goes on.
Set on a tight site, and bounded by significant setbacks from the road on one side and the hillside on the other, the plan responds simultaneously to the contours of the land and the flow of life. The building contours expand, compress and then expand again in a shape that signifies a beginning, a struggle and ultimate success, while also echoing the flow of wine when left to choose its own path. At its central compression point, the building volume pops up in a sweeping arc, an organic shape that houses the winery’s great hall. Wings to either side house the production winery and primary hospitality space, gracefully emerging from the topography to reveal sweeping views of the vineyards below. The project had been submitted for permitting.
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