Wine Tasting in the Heart of the Okanagan Valley

O'Rourke's Peak Cellars is located in Lake Country, BC, in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. This project was conceived of as two parts of a whole: the 5,000 square foot winery production building and the 3,000 square foot tasting building. Linking these spaces together with the use of an exterior covered walkway allowed the project to be phased to meet the tight schedule.

The winery production building was the first component, and was constructed as a compact steel structure on a simple concrete foundation. Insulated metal panels encase the steel structure, forming a durable wall assembly that was easily erected on site. A deep canopy over the crush pad with a large clear span provides a natural sunshade that does not interfere with the circulation of machinery needed during wine production. Low E glazing is used to minimize heat gain, while allowing natural daylight to wash into the tank room and mezzanine floor.

The tasting building was the second component, and is able to accommodate 126 occupants with retail and restaurant facilities. Wood is used throughout the tasting building and exterior canopy in the form of glulam beams and a CLT roof structure, to provide a warm and inviting contrast to the steel production building. The wood structure provides a deep overhang on the southern exposure which protects occupants while they enjoy a glass of wine on the patio, which is open to the view.