This modern winery landscape design project is set on a picturesque farm near Charlottesville, surrounded by rolling hills with distant views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The working agricultural and vineyard landscape which was founded originally in the 1980's by John & Felicia Rogan, was transformed by a new visionary owner, in collaboration with a highly talented architect and contractor team. The new Oakencroft Winery adds a new layer to a historic space, marrying the site's agricultural heritage with contemporary design and sustainability practices.

At the core of the design is a commitment to sustainability. The winery integrates solar panels, a geothermal well system, and rainwater capture and reuse to minimize its environmental impact while ensuring energy efficiency. Extensive ecological restoration planting, invasive species removal, and sustainable land management practices like controlled burns and permaculture techniques enhance the health of the soil and play a critical role in restoring the land’s natural health, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting a balanced ecosystem.

Stone and wood craftsmanship is a prominent feature of the design and ties the landscape to the surrounding natural terrain, blending the built environment seamlessly with the rolling pastures dotted with cows and sheep.

The repurposed barn, transformed into a tasting room, serves as the centerpiece of the winery, preserving the site's agricultural roots while providing a modern, inviting space for visitors. The design team designed social terraces, an event lawn, and even a mural and sculptural “feature wall” on an adjacent working barn that echoes the topography of the surrounding landscape, creating an iconic backdrop and visual connection between the building and its environment. Extensive planting further enhances the landscape, with both native and adapted species creating lush, resilient, and even edible gardens.

An entry drive was reconfigured and enhanced to provide clarity of movement on a large site, while also serving as an ecologically productive and scenic arrival procession for guests. The team also collaborated with the client and a local signage designer to create a cohesive wayfinding and signage strategy that connects all the design elements and materials across the site.

This project exemplifies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, where sustainable practices and modern design come together to create a winery that honors the land, embraces its agricultural heritage, and offers an exceptional visitor experience.

LOCATION:
Albemarle County, VA

CLIENT / PROJECT TEAM:
Private Client
Waterstreet Studio - Landscape & Architecture & Civil Engineering
Sutphin Architecture - Architect
Alexander Nicholson - General Contractor
J.W. Townsend - Planting Contractor
Inaray - Lighting Design/Build Contractor

PHOTOGRAPHY:
Bill Mauzy
Virginia Hamrick

https://www.oakencroftfarm.com/