Woodshed Wine’s tasting room draws National inspiration

Woodshed Wine Company’s tasting room in Dundee, Oregon, has been named a finalist in the 8th annual GRAY Awards under the Hospitality Design category.

Designed by Fieldwork Design & Architecture, the 910-square-foot structure draws inspiration from the surrounding vineyards and the client’s admiration for The National, a band whose subdued, melancholic music shaped the project’s mood. The design also references the cover art from the album “Sleep Well Beast”, with its muted tones and layered textures informing the material palette and atmospheric approach.

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Situated at the base of the surrounding hills, the building’s location and orientation respond to the rolling topography of the vineyards, offering curated views that evolve with the seasons. With only 910 square feet of conditioned interior space, the design integrates both covered and uncovered exterior areas, allowing for various seating configurations as seasonal demand fluctuates.

The winery, a small family operation, wanted a space that could grow with the business. The design team planned for flexibility, leaving room for future expansions while ensuring the building functioned immediately. An early site master plan identified potential spots for additional structures, allowing the winery to scale operations incrementally as demand increases. Both the design and construction teams remain engaged in the project’s long-term development, reflecting their commitment to the family’s vision.

Sustainability played a role in the decisions. The small footprint, efficient fixtures, and site placement minimize environmental impact, with the building sited to preserve existing drainage patterns and reduce infrastructure costs. Durable materials like metal roofing—chosen for its wildfire resistance—and stained cedar reduce long-term maintenance, while concrete floors develop a patina over time, adding character without requiring replacement. The efficient plumbing and lighting systems further enhance the project’s resource consciousness.

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A covered and uncovered exterior seating area extends the usable space, adapting to seasonal demand. The integration of both sheltered and open-air sections allows the winery to accommodate varying weather conditions and guest preferences, maximizing the functionality of the compact interior. This approach ensures the tasting room can host larger gatherings during peak seasons while maintaining intimacy in quieter periods.

The project was led by Cornell Anderson, Tonia Hein, Brannon Soens, and Karen Marx of Fieldwork Design & Architecture, with Cellar Ridge Construction as the contractor. Structural engineering support was provided by IDA Structural Engineering, ensuring the design balanced aesthetic ambitions with structural integrity.

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The firm, based in Portland and Samsø, Denmark, focuses on context-driven designs that connect with their natural surroundings. Founded in 2011 by interior designer Tonia Hein and architect Cornell Anderson, Fieldwork operates as a woman-owned studio, emphasizing collaboration and concept-driven solutions. Their work spans architecture, interiors, and furniture, with a consistent focus on sustainability, local materials, and a deep respect for site history. Natural ventilation and daylighting are recurring elements in their projects, reinforcing the connection between built environments and the settings they inhabit.

Photography for the project was provided by Dana Klein.