By Andy Young
South Australian winery d’Arenberg has updated its plans for its five story multi-function building the d’Arenberg Cube, to include rooftop umbrellas.
An artist's impression of Chester Osborn and the d'Arenberg cube's new rooftop umbrellas
Fourth generation family member and chief winemaker Chester Osborn said the updated design came about due to building regulations and he wanted to meet the standards in typical d’Arenberg style.
The glass roof will now feature 16 umbrellas, 15 black and one red, which will have hydraulically operated mechanical arms to lift each of them in a choreographed sequence of movement. Installation has already started on the umbrellas and is expected to be completed within the month.
“The umbrellas are being installed to shelter the building from the sun beaming through the clear glass roof,” Osborn said.
“Due to building regulations, no more than 5 per cent skylight is permitted, and so I needed to meet regulations, while also having a bit of fun, in true d'Arenberg style.”
Each umbrella is electrically operated and retractable, enabling them to fold in and lie down when not in use. The umbrellas can also operate independently, with each set in four quarters.
Work is continuing on the Cube which will include two virtual fermenters, a wine inhalation room and a wide range of other sensory experiences. The South Australian Government’s Regional Development Fund grant has given $2m in assistance to d’Arenberg for the Cube, which is due to open at the end of this year.
And despite details of the rooftop umbrellas being sent out on Saturday, 1 April, d’Arenberg has assured TheShout that this is no joke, it’s just a typically fun way for the winery to deal with this design problem.