RX Architects has skillfully re-worked a series of agricultural buildings at an organic winery in East Sussex
Designed by RX Architects, Tillingham Winery is situated in Peasmarsh, East Sussex, amidst fields and copses with panoramic views across the Tillingham Valley toward Rye. The brief was to creatively reuse existing buildings on the site, while also complementing the surrounding landscape and making reference to area’s rich heritage.
This ambitious project incorporates 28 hectares of farmland and various farm buildings, including a traditional oast dating back to the 19th century. The farm buildings have been restored to facilitate organic wine production, wine tasting rooms, visitor accommodation, teaching spaces and artisan workshop spaces. Mixed vine varieties will be planted on the predominantly south-facing land with sheep grazing, agri-foresty and camping on other parts of the estate.
Ground and first-floor plans
The design groups various elements of the winery around a central landscaped courtyard space. The buildings have been re-clad in a range of different materials, such as metal, concrete, and timber, with simple robust detailing to reflect the site’s farming heritage.
Restored galvanised metal and timber doors slide back to reveal framed views through the buildings to the courtyard, as well as the cylindrical steel and timber wine vats in the production areas. Two large winemaking qvevri are sunk into the ground under the open sided oast – returning the structure back to its former agricultural use.
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