Future-proof room opened for winery

Ridgeview, a Sussex-based winery, has celebrated the opening of a new tasting room designed to stand the test of time.

Yelo Architects from Brighton and Nutshell Construction, based in Sompting, West Sussex, were enlisted to bring the idea to life by the Ditchling wine estate, as it wished to add something new to its award-winning premises.

The room is an interpretation of the view from South Downs overlooking Ridgeview’s vineyards. It uses angular walls to specifically manipulate the light to mirror the effect that the vines and leaves have as they change colours with the turning of the seasons.

Many of the latest construction materials were used during the build, including concrete flooring panels and seamless table tops made from fused glass, which were specifically selected to give the room a modern and futuristic sensation.

The Sales and Marketing Manager of Ridgeview, Mardi Roberts, said that the team at Ridgeview is “extremely proud” of the new room, highlighting that it is a reflection of the company’s brand and represents its professionalism. He added that it will assist them in growing the hospitality aspects of the business.

Andy Parsons, Yelo Architects’ founder, said that the creation was designed to enhance, build, and extend the view that was already on offer. Ben Copper, the founder of Nutshell Construction, stressed that the project was a huge challenge, but revealed that all parties involved “couldn’t be happier” with the outcome.

The launch event was hosted earlier in September by wine critic and author Charles Metcalfe. The room can cater for events and hold up to 40 guests at a time.