DISCOVER GURDAU WINERY || An Oasis of Sustainable and Organic Architecture in the Czech Republic

DISCOVER GURDAU WINERY || An Oasis of Sustainable and Organic Architecture in the Czech Republic

As you wander into the lush and fertile countryside of Kurdějov, nestled within the picturesque hills and vineyards, Gurdau Winery is a sight to behold.

More than a wine producer, Gurdau is an enchanting haven that seamlessly merges organic architecture and sustainability in its design and operation.

Harmony with the Landscape: An In-ground Design Masterpiece

Set in the heart of the vineyards, Gurdau Winery commands a tranquil and soothing view. Its design takes a cue from the rolling landscape with a gentle wave-like curve that coalesces the building with its surroundings. The winery's roof, adorned with extensive greenery and perforated to allow mature trees to flourish, creates a serene natural integration with the terrain. This thoughtful design approach pays homage to the historical wine-growing heritage of the area and enhances the winery's connection with the cultural and natural greenery.

The vast winery grounds and tasting room blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

An Expression of Organic Architecture

Step into Gurdau Winery, and you'll find yourself ensconced in an atmosphere of beauty, refinement, and absolute comfort. The building's organic architecture is manifest in its exposed concrete, glass, metal, and oak and acacia wood construction. This architectural symphony is marked by precision craftsmanship and attention to detail, supporting the winery's contemporary and timeless character.

The sophisticated tasting room on the first floor.

The winery's in-ground setting is traditional, with the underground part utilized for producing, storing, and archiving wine. The ground floor serves as a vibrant tasting and seating area, augmented by expansive terraces and large glass facades that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This transparency invites natural moods and seasons into the space, fostering an inviting environment for social gatherings, romantic interludes, or quiet contemplation with a glass of wine.

An overhang design shields the indoors from the summer heat.

Embracing Eco-Conscious Design: Sustainability at Gurdau Winery

Gurdau Winery is designed with the utmost respect for its surroundings. Its green roof is almost invisible in distant views once the vegetation has fully grown. Additionally, its location right in the vineyard minimizes the transportation of raw materials and workers, while the production areas are strategically located underground to make use of passive energy.

During hot summer months, the building relies on thermally insulating triple glazing, wooden oak slats in front of the windows, an overhang of the curved roof, and a pergola shading the facade to prevent overheating. The winery utilizes an air-to-water heat pump for heating, and rainwater is collected in a storage tank for irrigating the vineyard.

The green roof is almost invisible when the vegetation has fully grown.

Pergola and wooden slats help guests keep cool while enjoying a glass of wine on the terrace.

Gurdau Winery's focus on sustainability resonates with the ethos of respecting nature, aligning with the trend of eco-conscious tourism, and making it a destination not just for wine lovers but also for those passionate about sustainable living and architecture.

Walking through Gurdau Winery is akin to embarking on a journey beyond wine tasting. It's an immersive experience that engages the senses, binds man, wine, and landscape, and redefines the wine-tourist culture in the Czech Republic.

PROJECT DETAILS

Studio: Aleš Fiala

Architect: Aleš Fiala

Co-author: Tomáš Bílek, Bronislav Bureš [civil engineers] 

Client: Gurdau Winery 

Project Location: Kurdějov 300, 693 01 Kurdějov

Project Country: Czech Republic 

Completion Year: 2022

Built-up Area: 1260 m²

Gross Floor Area: 1141 m²

Usable Floor Area: 997 m² 

Photographer: BoysPlayNice

Collaborators:

Statics: OK ateliér
MEP: Projekce TZB Prokeš
Electrical installations and security system: CATEGORY
Landscaping: Zdeněk Sendler
Furniture design, interior details: Daniela Hradilová
General contractor: Navláčil stavební firma
Steel constructions: OMELKA
NEJEZ stavebně zámečnické práce
Ateliér Originál Hořánek
Joinery: DŘEVOSTYL [Libor Zeman]
Bílek&Bílek truhlářství
Wooden floors and terraces: BELEVEY [Ladislav Sedláček]