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Piper-Charles Heidsieck House of Champagne >> in Reims (France), a warehouse in disguise


Architect Jacques Ferrier combines production and image, the warehouse typology with the elegance of a see-through shell.

To learn more about the warehouse, check out Archiscapes’ “Illustrated history of the Warehouse typology”

The façade is inspired by the structural minimalism of winery buildings: a pattern of small square metal plates within a grid that seems to dematerialize as it rises, recalling the effervescence of champagne bubbles. The simplicity and efficiency of its delicate metal structure also suggests considerable elegance and sophistication.

Inside this canopy, the program of the building is housed in a glass envelope: offices, a presentation space and a wine-growing site; all overlooking the pre-existing production facility.

All parts of the program are treated equally under the architectural standpoint, creating a consistent image. The visual effect helps it stand out as a landmark: by day the golden reflections blend with the landscape while at night the elevations become sources of diffused light.

The internal patios make sure that the transparent heart of the building has beautiful views both inwards and towards the Champagne region, while also creating an internal landscaped common space.

Photos by ©Luc Boegly

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