Thacher Winery and Vineyard Entry | Paso Robles, CA

Tucked just off of Vineyard Drive, Brecon Estate’s tasting room offers a shady oasis in the west-Paso heat. Once parked in the parking lot, visitors follow an array of California native plants to a weathered steel bridge. Upon crossing, they find themselves passing under the dappled shade of oak trees and see the clearing that leads them straight to the comfortably-contemporary tasting room. The landscape highlights the features of the building using upright grasses, and colors that contrast against the structure. Tree and plant selections closer to the seating area add to the cooling effect created by the natural landscape. The natural stone retaining walls are used to create tiered spaces, including lawns and a bocce court, creating plenty of usable space while paying homage to the natural surroundings.

Design: Aidlin Darling. Madrone Landscape. Install: Madrone Landscape