Carlos Martinez Architekten

The stage is set for wine and the arts – In the heart of the historical village of Berneck, a new centre is being developed for products by regional wineries. The core of the two-part ensemble is a monolithic building in beige-stained concrete. It is tonally integrated into the existing structures, its inviting gesture opening up towards the village centre. The solid nature of the building envelope recalls the formulation of prestigious municipal facilities and strengthens its position as a public building. The new development thereby distinguishes itself from the surrounding wooden buildings in terms of its status.

Visually, the volume of the central building section holds the group together. Reconstructed in its original form and size, the section connects old and new elements, while setting itself apart functionally from a farmhouse. The steeply rising saddle roof forms the harmonious conclusion of the building row. It follows the roof-ridge line of the adjoining building.

The formwork prints of 21 different vine leaves are subtly embossed onto the fair-faced concrete surface, symbolising the content-related orientation of the cultural centre. The wine cellar, including the vaulted roof inspired by historical role models, forms the building centrepiece. At a temperature of 17 degrees and with presentation niches for all wines, it impresses as an appropriate show and tasting room for the regional winery products.

The generous ground-floor event room combines an airy atmosphere with a stringent choice of materials and strong references to the outdoor environment. The combination of fair-faced concrete and wood is harmonious. All outer walls are clad in silver fir on their inner sides, providing visual highlights and ensuring pleasant acoustics.