In Las Compuertas, Mendoza, Argentina, a new sustainable winery stands as a testament to innovative design and environmental responsibility. Set on a narrow site with sweeping mountain views, the winery integrates locally sourced recycled materials to minimize its carbon footprint while creating a striking, functional structure. Designed by Mora Hughes Arquitectos, the project was conceived in response to the client’s desire to build a winery that is both sustainable and visually distinctive.
The design process began with a focus on identifying reusable materials available locally in large quantities. Reclaimed elements, including old wooden rafters from a dilapidated adobe warehouse, discarded shipping containers, and oil drilling pipes, were salvaged and repurposed to form the foundation of the building.
The oil borehole pipes, salvaged for their structural integrity, became the main columns of the winery. These were strategically placed in a grid formation to support the central nave’s roof. The columns were constructed by connecting four smaller diameter pipes, with larger sections placed in the center. The salvaged rafters, once part of an old warehouse, were reinterpreted to create a unique roof, with their pendentives now facing downward, adding a modern and artistic touch.
Shipping containers were employed to enclose functional spaces such as the wine shop, tasting rooms, storage areas, and offices, optimizing the use of space. This modular approach ensured efficient use of materials while maintaining the project’s sustainable ethos.
The construction process was dynamic and constantly evolving, as materials were often sourced from local demolitions or “chacaritas” (rural sheds). This led to frequent adjustments and modifications to the design, requiring creativity and flexibility to work with the available resources.
Each reused material tells a story of its previous life. Wood from the mezzanine of a former winery now serves as a partition inside the shipping containers, while aluminum panels from the iconic Hotel Aconcagua’s ceiling have been reimagined as elegant cladding. Additionally, solid wood remnants from the winery’s original construction were cut into uniform strips, creating a warm, cohesive finish in the tasting room.
The result is a harmonious blend of the old and new, with creative reuse at its core. The sustainable approach not only minimized the environmental impact of the project but also imbued the winery with a unique, authentic character that resonates with its natural surroundings. The collaboration between the architects and client resulted in a functional, aesthetically pleasing space that reflects both the winemaking process and a deep respect for sustainability.
Related topics:
