African Design Magazine July 2016 | Page 17

African project Anura Vineyards – South Africa

Anura Vineyards , a breathtaking South African wine farm situated in the Cape Winelands , has revealed modern interiors for its new events venue . Nestled between the towns of Paarl and Stellenbosch , this venue provides more than just idyllic surroundings and award-winning wines – it offers a contemporary design direction in a landscape usually associated with traditional architecture .

breaking the mould

Having already created the heady contemporary space for the wine farm ’ s restaurant and brewery , Wagon Trail , it was not surprising that Inhouse Brand Architects was commissioned to design the new building ’ s interiors . Inhouse was directed by the client to connect the style of the existing restaurant with that of the events space .

Set to host a wide range of functions such as weddings , launches and conferences , it was essential that a stylish and inclusive aesthetic was chosen , forming a neutral backdrop for any function . Creative director , Aidan Hart , and senior designer , Brenda Hart ( both of whom had previously headed the Wagon Trail project ), opted for neutral colours to contrast the venue ’ s high ceilings already clad by the client in solid Oregon pine . Light-colour porcelain tiles were selected for the flooring , along with a weatheredplaster paint finish , to complement the warm wooden hues and establish a distinctly modern space that hints at a conventional farmhouse . Floor-to-ceiling glass windows perfectly frame the outdoor vistas , further strengthening the contemporary feel while incorporating the best use of natural light .
The choice of lighting was a challenge because it needed to suit a variety of different events . Steering away from the traditional , Inhouse commissioned local industrial designer , Ryan Matchett , to create a series of modish , steel pendant feature lights . These are suspended over the entire venue , providing well-balanced light throughout .
The bathrooms encompass the modern-rustic aesthetic that is already evident in the space . Brass pendant lights and taps , as well as angled mirrors , produce a countrified look-and-feel . This is cleverly juxtaposed with black mosaic-wall tiles , which contribute to a more contemporary appearance . Wood tiling in the bathrooms was used , offering practicality and warmth .
Adjoined to the main venue is the beautifully conceived Cooper ’ s Bar . Inspired by the craft of barrel-making , as the name suggests , the interior conveys a sense of the
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