The starting point is the region of Nordburgenland. Due to the influence of the continental-hot Pannonian climate, some of Austria’s best wines grow in Burgenland. The complex processes of wine production are rarely reflected in their architecture; functional, flexible storage halls are created. The task of this work is to break the familiar conventions of a winery and find an architectural response to how this building type can be further developed. Our project finds its place on the eastern foothills of the Leithagebirge, where it rests like a bridge in a natural furrow crossing a field path. This daring placement not only creates a connection between the traditions of viticulture and the surrounding landscape but also integrates the existing paths, which now lead over the roof of the building to a newly created plateau. Here, on this elevated level, visitors are treated to a spectacular view. Upon entering the building, one descends initially via an open staircase into an inviting courtyard, from which the building unfolds.

The elongated building, in its narrow construction, seems to be in dialogue between the expansiveness of the vineyards and the solidity of the mountain. The upper floor houses the facilities for the hotel area and administration, while the lower floor organizes the entire wine processing operation, starting from the outer peripheral areas to the central core. A central element of the building is the wine bar, which serves as a link between production and visitors. A fascinating part of the production process is the vertical wine processing, where the grapes enter the building via the roof and are transported as finished wine underneath the building.

The architecture of the building is structurally inspired by bridge and aqueduct constructions, with an internal framework elegantly supporting the floors and giving a sense of lightness, while minimizing the intervention in the landscape. With its predominant use of concrete and minimalist design, the building blends into the landscape like a relic of yesteryears and emphasizes the natural beauty of its surroundings. Except for three distinctive objects on the roof, which mark entrances, the building itself takes a backseat and allows the interior spaces to appear even stronger. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of winemaking and experience the beauty of nature in all its glory.