Set within the Sonoma Valley, Buena Vista Winery is California’s oldest commercial winery. Founded in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy, an eccentric Hungarian winemaker and pioneer, Buena Vista played a pivotal role in the establishment of European grapes in Sonoma and the early development of the California wine industry.

In 2011, after multiple changes of ownership and decades of neglect, new owners began a complete restoration of the historic buildings and landscape. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, the property retains two original stone buildings— the Press House and the Cellar Building. A new cohesive landscape delineates a new sequence of arrival to the site, as well as carving out new programmatic spaces around the historic buildings and throughout the property.

Beginning at the parking area, a new path weaves through the site, bordering a demonstration vineyard that presents the horticultural history of Buena Vista. A hedge maze set under the shade of heritage oak trees allows visitors to wander and escape the Sonoma summer heat.  Retaining walls of reclaimed stone create a series of terraces and outdoor rooms that connect the Press House to the Cellar Building. A new forecourt of intricately patterned cobble is an elegant counterpoint to the masonry of the winery buildings, and provides a space for seasonal events and picnicking. The circular elements and vortex fountain set within the plaza evoke to the themes of Buena Vista’s biodynamic and celestial approaches to viticulture.

Location: Sonoma, CA

Status: Completed 2015

Project Type: Winery

Client: Buena Vista Winery

Collaborators: ARG Architects, Siteworks Landscape, Cello Maudru

Photography: Marion Brenner

Awards

California Preservation Foundation + Preservation Design Awards, 2013

AIA San Francisco Honor Award, Energy + Sustainability, 2013