Wine Cellar Project

Study case

JOHANNESBURG - SOUTH AFRICA

Private Residence

For more than twelve years, La Sartoriale has been designing and creating spaces dedicated to the world of wine for high-end residential, institutional, and hospitality projects.

Our approach lies at the intersection of interior architecture, climate engineering, and bespoke craftsmanship, with a constant commitment to precision and seamless integration.

Each project is conceived as an architectural space in its own right, planned from the earliest stages of design and developed in close collaboration with the project management teams.

Background & Intent

Here, the wine cellar takes a back seat to a space designed as a living area in its own right, where technology and spatial design complement each other.

Conceived for an international collector, this project goes beyond the traditional concept of a wine cellar to become an architectural space entirely dedicated to the world of wine.

The goal is to create a space integrated from the outset into the home’s overall design, where preservation, presentation, and the tasting experience come together.

A true private reception space, it accommodates both moments of shared enjoyment and more intimate gatherings.

This wine room precisely balances climate control requirements, the presentation of the collection, and user experience, within a coherent and sustainable design framework.

Estimated capacity: 850 to 1,050 bottles.

Wall A – Wines & Champagnes Showcase

Wall B – Wine Cabinet

Architecture

The project is based on a precise balance between technical constraints and spatial quality.

The space is organized around two seven-meter-long walls facing each other, creating a defining perspective.

On one side, a fully glazed wall displays the collection in refrigerated display cases with differentiated temperature zones and controlled humidity.

This controlled transparency allows for a seamless view of the bottles while ensuring optimal storage conditions.

Opposite it, a second wall features a more open design with a “Sommelier” unit that integrates service functions, preparation areas, and display elements.

In the center, a lounge area anchors and extends the experience, blending functionality, contemplation, and tasting.

Development Process & Project Management

1 - Analysis & Discovery

Understanding the site’s uses, purposes, and constraints

2 - Target Budget

Quick Estimate Without a Plan—Defining Investment Scenarios

3 - APS - PRELIMINARY DRAFT OUTLINE

Defining the Scope of the Project and Establishing Guiding Principles

4 - Volumetric Design - CLAY RENDER

Validation of Proportions and Space in Neutral Volumes

5 - APD - PRELIMINARY FINAL DESIGN

Technical and Aesthetic Finalization – Setting Costs and Deadlines

Expertise

Our approach is based on integrating technical and architectural elements to ensure the coherence of projects in demanding environments.

The wine cellars we design are not standalone units, but technical spaces integrated into the architecture.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

_Multi-zone temperature management

_Humidity control

_Integrated or remote cooling systems

_Specialized glass treatments (UV protection, anti-condensation, thermal stability)

_On-site integration in coordination with architects

–Management of ventilation and HVAC requirements

Added Value

COMPLEX INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS

_Early-stage integration with the project management team

_Anticipating on-site constraints

_Seamless transition from design to manufacturing to execution

_Reliable execution on highly demanding projects