Gestural Design and the Vineyard

Gestural Design and the Vineyard

Gestural Design and the Vineyard

Marrying rustic charm with modern aesthetics, MBH Architects recently renovated the 6,000 square foot Rubin Family Vineyard and Winery in Sebastopol, California. Fulfilling the lifelong dream of owner and wine enthusiast, Ron Rubin, the MBH team used the architecture and winery circulation to express the brand identity, integrating thoughtful details throughout to tell the vineyard’s story from vine to bottle.Gestural Design and the Vineyard

Ways this was achieved include:

  • Gestural Design:  The winery’s lobby features an elliptical shape, curving staircase, and reclaimed wood walls from a local barn, recalling a wine barrel.

  • Taking Inspiration from Local Nature:The soft neutrals of the porcelain tile, painted walls, and carpet within the winery were inspired by Rubin’s passion for the Golden Loam soil of the vineyard, while locally sourced redwood and recycled cedar were inspired by Sonoma County — connecting the property’s design to the natural landscape.

  • Focusing on the Vines: Slotted windows in the winery were strategically placed to offer wistful glimpses of the vines outside, while its two tasting rooms offer spectacular views on each of the floors.The second floor tasting room features a custom Nanowall that opens to create an indoor/outdoor space, perfect for enjoying the aromas of the vineyard while avoiding the sunGestural Design and the Vineyard

Taking a feng shui approach that juxtaposes the old and new parts of the winery as yin and yang, MBH Architects created a modern hospitality atmosphere within the structure while emphasizing the natural beauty of the surrounding vines.