Something between: Crafting Sustainable Cultural Experiences at Podere Fedespina

Project idea

Located in the heart of Tuscany, the project at Podere Fedespina aims to create a unique, sustainable cultural experience that harmonizes the region's rich heritage with innovative practices. This endeavor seeks to preserve and celebrate the area's wine culture while promoting conservation and slow tourism.

Project description

Harmonizing Heritage and Innovation for Conservation and Slow Tourism

In the heart of Tuscany, rises a building that breathes the essence of wine culture as a living testimony to the harmony between nature and human creation. By delicately embracing the newly planted vineyard, the building becomes an integral part of the landscape, a natural extension of the environment that welcomes it. Its U-shaped form is an invitation to encounter, a gesture of hospitality that invites visitors to enter its space, where the scent of mass timber and the soft echo of steel blend in a unique architecture.

To its left stands the wooden building welcomes gastronomy lovers with an open kitchen, while the cellar holds the deepest secrets of wine, patiently waiting to be discovered. On the other side, like a silent guardian, rises the steel frame structure, a modern and enigmatic fortress that houses the backstage of the building. Between these two opposite poles, a central courtyard emerges as an oasis of tranquility, a meeting point where opposites meet and merge in perfect harmony. Here, under the watchful gaze of the vineyards, visitors, winemakers, sommeliers, and staff come together around a common passion: wine, celebrating the art and poetry of life.

In the basement of the building lies the cave where the alchemy of wine unfolds. Adjacent to that, a wine-tasting room awaits, where connoisseurs and novices alike can explore the nuances of each vintage, guided by
the expertise of sommeliers steeped in the lore of the vine. Venturing further, one discovers a hidden courtyard, a verdant oasis nestled within the embrace of the stone walls. Here, a small garden flourishes as a tranquil haven, where the stresses of the world outside dissipate amidst the rustling leaves.

Technical information

Architectural Design and Structure

The centerpiece of the project is a thoughtfully designed U-shaped building that embodies a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The use of mass timber imparts a warm, natural aesthetic, while steel frames add a contemporary touch, ensuring durability and resilience. This architectural combination not only enhances the visual appeal but also supports sustainable construction practices.

Left Wing: The wooden building on the left side features an open kitchen, attracting gastronomy lovers and providing an interactive culinary experience. This space is designed to welcome visitors into the heart of Tuscan cuisine, fostering a connection between food and culture.

Right Wing: In contrast, the steel frame structure on the right serves as the operational backbone of the building. This modern, enigmatic fortress houses the essential backstage functions, ensuring the smooth running of the entire facility.

Central Courtyard: At the core of the U-shaped structure lies a central courtyard, an oasis of tranquility where visitors can gather and relax. This space serves as a communal meeting point, blending traditional elements with modern design to create a harmonious environment.

Functional Areas and Facilities

The project encompasses several specialized areas, each designed to enhance the visitor experience and promote a deeper understanding of wine culture.

Vineyard: The newly planted vineyard is a vital component of the project, carefully integrated into the landscape to maintain ecological balance and support organic farming practices.

Cellar: Located in the basement, the cellar is the heart of the wine-making process. Here, the alchemy of wine unfolds, with the space dedicated to the storage and aging of wine.

Wine-Tasting Room: Adjacent to the cellar, the wine-tasting room offers an immersive experience for both connoisseurs and novices. Guided by expert sommeliers, visitors can explore the nuances of each vintage, deepening their appreciation for the art of winemaking.

Hidden Courtyard: Beyond the main courtyard lies a hidden garden, a serene retreat enclosed within stone walls. This small garden provides a peaceful haven where guests can escape the stresses of the outside world and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Purpose and Functionality

The design and functionality of the Podere Fedespina project are centered around hospitality, education, and community engagement.

Hospitality and Tourism: The U-shaped building is a gesture of hospitality, inviting visitors to explore and engage with the space. This design encourages a slower pace of tourism, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the cultural and natural beauty of the vineyard.

Cultural and Educational Engagement: The open kitchen, cellar, and wine-tasting room serve as educational hubs, offering insights into local wine culture and culinary arts. These areas promote a deeper connection to Tuscan traditions and the art of winemaking.

Community Interaction: The central courtyard and communal spaces are designed to foster interaction among visitors, winemakers, sommeliers, and staff. This focus on community creates a vibrant atmosphere where shared passions for wine and culture can flourish.