seattle-based firm, goCstudio, embraces natural landscape in the design for a local winery

in a landscape like columbia river gorge, built architecture must take into account the area’s changing, and sometimes unpredictable, weather conditions. seattle-based firm goCstudio has completed a 5,200-square-foot vineyard and winery complex for COR cellars that sits along the scenic route of old highway 8 in washington state. from the site, located in the designated national scenic area, one is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. working alongside the vineyard owner, the structure was designed to preserve the landscape, to create a well organized space to accommodate the multi-faceted business, and protect workers and visitors from the harsh conditions of the surrounding environment.  

goCstudio has designed and expanded an existing vineyard in columbia river gorge
images by kevin scott

maintaining some similarities to the vineyard’s earlier building on the site, the architects have maintained a similar entry sequence, but integrated a crucial element — the central courtyard. the two wings of the building contain the barrel storage. large doors that measure from floor to ceiling, can be opened to expose the barrels. this design streamlines a visitor towards the tasting room in between. bi-fold glass doors create a space that can easily transition between interior and exterior depending on the weather conditions, but more importantly, to harness the view and natural light. additional light enters the space through the ceiling’s skylights. 

COR cellars is located on old highway 8, within the designated national scenic area

mount hood and the carved mountainside create breathtaking surrounding views from all angles

the winery opened in 2004, but need additional space to accommodate the growing business

a central courtyard provides protected exterior space for employees and visitors

aggressive weather features, such as wind, were taken into account in the design 

the overall design uses a refined palette of colors and textures

the wine storage rooms can open to expose the stacked wine barrels inside

the entry sequence was preserved from the original structure so that the new and old remain connected

the project is a 5,200-square-foot space

the design was proposed as a ‘respite from the wind’ 

the large overhangs surrounding the courtyard allow visitors to view it as an inviting space

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