Gijs Van Vaerenbergh

117 Wine Cellar Photo 01 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 02 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 03 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 04 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 05 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 06 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 07 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 08 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 09 Photo Johnny Umans
117 Wine Cellar Photo 10 Photo Johnny Umans
Wine Cellar 10

Wine Cellar

An existing cellar in a private home was transformed into a wine cellar that deceives its visitors with the illusion of being endless. The space is as minimal and sober as it is lush and luxurious.

With a few interventions, the rectangular space is optically bent and extended. Two metal structures are placed in the space alongside the longitudinal walls. Both are segments of a circle with a shared centre point. They are lit from behind to mask their varying distance from the wall. The bent metal structures function as wine racks. Their lightweight design effectively turns the bottles into the protagonists of this space. The green hue of the glass complements the grey tones of the walls and ceiling.

On the short sides of the space, mirrored walls are installed slightly skewed, hiding the technical systems behind them. Their reflections extend the curved space almost seamlessly, making the room appear as a very large ring-shaped space. Two half-shaped cylinders placed against the mirrors function as a simple seat and table and hide the climatization system.

The wine cellar is turned into an experience. Visually, the space is defined by a very limited palette of elements: wine racks form the walls, the vaulted ceiling covers them in a welcoming gesture, while the band of lighting further accentuates the curvature. The collection of bottles is playfully multiplied in an illusion that extends endlessly on both ends of the space. 

COMMISSION
private

DATE
2022 (ongoing)

LOCATION
Leuven (BE)