LEOPARDS LEAP WINE ESTATESet against the of the breathtaking backdrop and the rich viniculture tradition of the Franschhoek Valley, the Leopards’ Leap Wine Estate will provide a contemporary home for the innovative Leopards’ Leap Wine brand. The existing building will be converted and extended to host a range of activities, paying homage to the values and qualities intrinsic to Leopards’ Leap wines. Also known as ‘the writers wine’ and passionately involved in the Cape Leopard Trust, visitors can expect to experience themes of culture and conservation, as well as an added culinary twist to spice up the visit. The building will provide a series of different experiences, with beautiful and elegant design complimented by signature furniture pieces. MDL is handling all scopes of the work, including landscape, interior and furniture design. The brief called for an existing shed-like structure, on a farm just outside of Franschhoek in the Western Cape to be converted into the home of Leopard’s Leap Wine. Spatial requirements included a tasting area and private tasting lounge, a demonstration kitchen and culinary studio for world renowned chef Liam Tomlin, a boardroom, offices and other associated functional spaces. Most of these requirements could be accommodated in the existing facility and it was only necessary to add two new structures to the South and West.They are treated as discreet elements separated from the main building with glass “gaskets”. The existing building was gutted and a horizontal “cut” at a height of three meters was made through the structure in order to open it up to the outside and the spectacular views of the Franschhoek Valley. This cut set up a datum line which organized the space vertically and determined all ceiling heights and the mezzanine level. Lightweight steel structures and elements were added to contrast with the heaviness of the existing and a feeling of airiness pervades the space. Major elements like the tasting counter, fireplaces and ramps were treated as sculptural pieces and provide focal points, as well as guiding one through the space, eventually ending up at the extensive veranda overlooking the vineyards.Finishes were chosen to be muted yet sophisticated and includes polyurethane resin for the floors, opaque white Perspex for the ceiling, and solid Oak timber for all joinery. The colour palette also complements the brand’s corporate colours. Extensive landscaping complements the interior and features a steel sculpture, water features and a herb garden that supplies the kitchen. Sustainability was addressed through the implementation of performance glazing, solar water heating with heat pumps, and energy efficient lighting. All timber was sourced from responsible forestry.