Vinteloper is far more than a venue for sampling wine; it is a holistic space where architecture, history, and the beauty of the Adelaide Hills converge. From the ashes of the 2019 Cudlee Creek bushfire, the space inspires, is a testament to resilience, and tells a powerful story of recovery. The architecture, a collaboration between Detail Studio (exterior) and Studio Beal (interior), is distinctive for its conceptual approach of “re-imagining the ruin”. The design incorporates the remnants of the razed 1920 farmhouse in a striking dialogue between past and present. A “contemporary sleeve” is nestled within the fire-surviving historic brick walls, creating a structure that honours its heritage while embodying a forwardthinking, modern outlook. This blend of a historic homestead with what has been described as “brutal contemporary industrial design” creates a building of challenging and unique architectural significance. The materials used are central to the building’s unique architectural narrative. The original red bricks that withstood the blaze are a visible and foundational part of the exterior. In a poignant tribute, charred timber beams recovered from the ruins have been repurposed as totems in the landscape. These original materials are contrasted with modern, industrial materials of concrete and steel, while the selection of copper for the roof adds another architectural element of evolving texture. Inside, the strong exterior is softened by natural materials, organic tones, and plush furnishings, creating a space that feels both luxurious and as comfortable as a home.
2026 Best Of Wine Tourism Award winner for Architecture and Landscape for Adelaide, South Australia: “Vinteloper was recognised for designing an honest and welcoming space for wine tourists, which stands as a physical expression of resilience and grit that embodies the spirit of the South Australian wine industry.”
