Located in the northern part of Buchs, between a commercial belt and a residential neighborhood, the Secli Weinwelt is a mixed-use complex of residential and commercial spaces. The development consists of 15 cuboid volumes that appear like stacked wine crates and extend over two storeys each. Clad in terracotta, the building evokes associations with the world of wine and translates the client’s vision into form and material.

The concept and realization go far beyond the original intention of combining office and storage functions to minimize logistical inefficiencies. The architects developed a hybrid typology that interweaves functions in a way that responds both programmatically and urbanistically to the demands of living, working, and enjoyment.

The “Cathedral of Wine,” together with the bulk storage facility, forms the heart of the complex. Within this enclosed forum, visitors experience the volume through its impressive spatial height. On the first floor, the offices are designed to be transparent and filled with natural light. A glazed meeting room inserted into the storage area allows for reciprocal views: into the world of wine and into the daily work shaped by genuine passion.

Like the bases of bottles within a wine crate, circular glass panes in two sizes are distributed across the wall separating the foyer and offices from the cavernous, double-height high-bay warehouse. This is where illuminated display niches are located—organized according to the provenance of the wines. In the southern part of the building, six generously proportioned apartments are situated.