When should I call an architect?
When you are ready to create your legacy! Whether you have a preliminary vision or a refined idea, we can help you take the first steps. Architect participation for this project type usually occurs very early in the process (preceded by a land use consultant). For an optimal and efficient first meeting, we recommend that you have spent some time considering overall goals about your location, project size, building style, and your unique concept.
What will make my winery/tasting room stand out?
Begin the design process with a strong story or concept that will help create a unique experience and drive design decisions. Your theme should be recognizable and expressed throughout your project and product. Your visitors want to be part of your story, so give it to them!
What is the difference between a winery and boutique winery?
The difference comes down to case capacity. In the state of California, exceeding production of 10,000 cases per year begins to introduce additional wastewater requirements, so many boutique projects target a 10,000 case capacity or less. However, we label wineries producing under 20,000 cases per year as boutique, as our local jurisdiction utilizes 20,000 cases as a threshold between land use permit types.
What is the permitting process?
This varies by jurisdiction. Many require a land use permit prior to submitting for a building permit. The land use permitting process includes a schematic design phase that focuses on the overall building design and proposed site changes. This phase, including processing and issuance of the land use permit, may take over 18 months, however, this is project specific and depends on numerous factors. After receiving the land use permit, the contract document phase begins. This phase, including processing and issuance of the building permit, may take 12 months, which again depends on numerous factors.
What consultants will be required for my project?
Consultants required for a new winery/tasting room include a land use consultant, surveyor, geotechnical engineer, civil engineer, fire protection engineer, structural engineer, mechanical & plumbing engineer, and electrical engineer. Other consultants could include landscape designer, interior designer, metal building fabricator, and winery equipment specialist. Additional specialists may also be needed for specific studies such as traffic, acoustic, and environmental.
What are some ways to manage cost?
There are many factors that determine the cost of a winery project. Some of these include size, complexity, construction type, and current market construction costs. We like to understand your specific budget needs during our initial meeting so we can work with you to accomplish your winery goals while also targeting your budget. When looking at cost effective design, we take into consideration building location and building type. Beginning with solid concepts that drive design decisions and a resolved program results in fewer revisions and a more streamlined and overall cost effective project. We also like to help our clients interview prospective contractors early in the process so that the contractor can join the team and bring current market knowledge to the table.
