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Location: Queenstown, New Zealand

Interior Designer: Space Studio Ltd

Architect: Wyatt & Grey Architects

Hotel Group/Developer: Gibbston Valley

Photography: Studio Weir, Michelle Weir

Gibbston Valley Wines approached Space Studio to assist with a lodge development adjoining their existing winery. They had the outline of 50 or so villas and a spa planned around a central lodge facility. The request was to create a boutique luxury experience that would allow them to share more with those who loved their incredible location and biodynamic wines. The development had to appear as a residential expression of the brand, and the guests should feel like privileged invited guests.

To deliver on luxury Space Studio set about re-planning the spaces to prioritise the key functions and site aspect of each interior area. The designers oriented the areas towards the key aspect, and increased proportion around the functions of the space to add sense of generosity. Space Studio also prioritised the operational zones and services so that delivering a luxury experience would be sustainable for the operation.

The intent was to create spaces that give the sense that the buildings have always been there. Gibbston Valley Winery produces single vineyard vintages that are a true representation of the terroir and Space Studio’s design focusses on this aspect across the spaces. The materials and colours are chosen to co-ordinate closely with the surrounding geography with use of the surrounding materials and colours with a preference towards materials that will all patina over time. The proportions of the detailing borrow from traditional silhouettes and junctions in line with the heritage style of their branding.

Guest experience was a priority for the design, and Space Studio wanted to ensure every detail considered how it would be experienced. The designers focused on creating a ‘worn in’ tactile level of detail. Edges, junctions, and forms had to be soft, gentle and feel familiar and homely. It was vital that the carefully source hardware and products that felt and sounded solid, heavy and strong with a crafted elegance. Most of the furniture Space Studio custom designed to ensure they could provide more proportion, comfort and commercial stability that would last. The designers worked closely with local artisans to produce custom handles, furniture, art and objects in key locations, re-enforcing the regional context.