Nestled in the heart of Reims, France, Maison Ruinart embodies the elegance of champagne not just in its offerings but in its very architecture and ambiance. Following an extensive two-year restoration, this storied champagne house has re-emerged with a modern sensibility that maintains reverence for its deep roots in winemaking tradition. The renewed space is a remarkable fusion of design, architecture, and nature, capturing the effervescent spirit of champagne through the collaborative vision of acclaimed professionals in the fields of architecture and design.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Sou Fujimoto
Interior Architect: Gwenaël Nicolas
Landscape Designer: Christophe Gautrand
Furniture: Oak and Beech Furnishings
Location: Reims, France
Art Installation: Atelier Barrois
The renovation has been expertly curated by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, alongside landscape designer Christophe Gautrand and interior architect Gwenaël Nicolas. Central to their vision is a novel pavilion composed of stone and glass. This architectural masterpiece is situated within a sculpture garden that prioritizes local biodiversity. Fujimoto’s design is inspired by champagne bubbles, creating an airy and asymmetrical structure reminiscent of the swirling curves of a champagne glass. The pavilion blurs the line between interior and exterior, with a transparent bay window allowing views of both the historic site and the surrounding landscape.
Inside the pavilion, visitors embark on a sensory journey through interconnected spaces that echo the natural landscape of the region. The play of light and shadow within these areas enhances the immersive experience, drawing attention to the delicate balance of nature’s beauty that surrounds the Maison Ruinart. The interior design thoughtfully incorporates textures and hues that pay homage to Ruinart’s chardonnay vineyards. Subtle green tones in the upholstery and wooden furnishings fashioned in petal-like shapes foster a sense of continuity with the environment outside.
Adding to the rich, dreamlike quality of the space, floating glass bubbles designed by Atelier Barrois adorn the bar area, enhancing the feeling of whimsy and elegance. Beneath the pavilion, an intimate cellar offers enthusiasts a secluded environment for tasting some of Ruinart’s rarest champagne vintages. This space encapsulates the delicate merge of history and modernity, creating an atmosphere that invites exploration while respecting the Maison’s legacy. Interior architect Gwenaël Nicolas emphasizes this synergy, highlighting the importance of balancing tradition with contemporary appeal.
The rejuvenated site not only stands as a testament to Maison Ruinart’s heritage but also as an invitation for modern dialogue and cultural exchange. It offers a vibrant platform for artisans, artists, chefs, and visitors to collectively celebrate the unique confluence of history, culture, and the art of champagne. This revitalized venue aims to inspire creativity and foster connections, making it a lively center for events and gatherings that reflect the Maison’s enduring legacy in winemaking excellence.
In essence, the restored Maison Ruinart in Reims goes beyond merely preserving its storied past; it actively reinterprets it through a contemporary lens. Embracing both historical and modern aesthetics, the newly designed space offers visitors an enriching experience that captures the quintessential philosophy of champagne—effervescent, elegant, and timeless.
