Image courtesy of La Cité du Vin

 Bordeaux’s La Cité du Vin To Debut in June 2016

Originally known as the Centre for Wine Culture and Tourism, this project was first launched in 2009. The Project Steering Association for La Cité du Vin, presided by Sylvie Cazes and directed by Philippe Massol, was entrusted with the task of coordinating feasibility studies in partnership with the City of Bordeaux, which would serve as commissioning authority and project owner of the final building. A bold architectural landmark, La Cité du Vin makes an immediate impression with its grand form and audacious curves. This iconic modern monument will be home to a Cité within the city, a vibrant space packed with experiences to explore and enjoy.

Image courtesy of La Cité du Vin

The architects from Parisian agency XTU, Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières, have imagined a structure replete with symbolic echoes: the knotty trunk of a grapevine, the swirl of wine moving in a glass, the ebb and flow of the Garonne, their design captures the spirit of wine and its fluid essence. The sensual curve which defines the building’s exterior is also reflected in the interior volumes, spaces and materials. La Cité du Vin is clad in a robe of shimmering gold, echoing the blond limestone of Bordeaux’s classical façades. This outer surface is composed of a patchwork of printed glass panels and perforated, iridescent lacquered aluminium panels.

Image courtesy of La Cité du Vin

For La Cité du Vin, Casson Mann’s designers came up with the idea of an innovative, immersive permanent tour which would make use of the latest interactive digital technologies and incorporate a brand new visitor tool: an individual, hand-held guide. This innovative permanent exhibition space places La Cité du Vin firmly among the world’s most interactive, original visitor experiences.

more. www.laciteduvin.com