LocationNapa, CA
ArchitectDouglas Thornley, Goring & Straja Architects
Structural EngineerZFA Structural Engineers
Mechanical EngineerTEP Engineering
Civil EngineerAdobe Associates, Inc.
Landscape ArchitectRoche + Roche
PhotographerTechnical Imagery Studios

Set in the heart of the Carneros AVA, Cuvaison Estate Winery’s hospitality building is a small gem set within the rolling, vine-covered hills, overlooking the property’s picturesque lake. Nordby Construction was hired to update and enhance the building with an expanded terrace, a new entry sequence and refreshed interior spaces.

Cuvaison Estate Wines Tasting Room Expansion map

Expanding the building’s existing terrace by 50 percent created more outdoor gathering space, while further opening up the small building to the view and enhancing the immersive experience of the surrounding vineyards. The new terrace steps out into the vineyards, immersing visitors in the landscape and embracing views of the property’s small lake, while a new, custom-designed water feature helps cool the exposed terrace on warm, sun-filled days. A glass pivot door replaces the original cedar pivot door leading to the terrace, enabling an uninterrupted view from the interior tasting room. Power lines that once criss-crossed the view have been buried. The interiors have been refreshed with new paint, tile and custom woodwork.

The newly re-arranged entry creates a more definitive and welcoming arrival sequence. The original entry, which once led to a terrace-side entrance, has been relocated to the rear of the building. A new covered walkway – glassed in to provide protection from the elements – takes advantage of the views of the vineyard-covered hillside behind the winery structures. Enclosing the small existing courtyard near the new entry point allowed a more expansive entry foyer. 

A new portico, lined in horizontal cedar siding to match the hospitality building, boasts the Cuvaison brand symbol, crafted of steel and set into a cut-out in the portico’s front wall, which became an instantly-popular photography spot for visitors. A new entry gate at the base of a long, tree-lined drive, also incorporates the Cuvaison brand identity. Future phases include two VIP tasting pavilions, which will sit over the lake, serviced by a small prep-kitchen.

Cuvaison Estate Cuvaison Estate Wines Tasting Room Expansion