Creating a space for people to come together and enjoy the magic of a meal and bottle of wine shared has been a founding ethos for the von Arnim family and team at Haute Cabrière.

The Concept

What is wine without moments, and special moments without wine? The two are inextricably linked for us and our philosophy in the cellar is to create wines for life’s moments.

As our wine ranges grew, so did the idea for establishing a new restaurant showcasing our view of the valley for our guests to enjoy. As this idea developed, we made the decision to revamp the interiors of our underground tasting room and establish a history lounge for guests to relax and soak up the atmosphere over a glass or two of wine.

Christiaan Barnard of Christiaan Barnard Interior & Design was chosen as the interior design partner for the project. With bold ideas, a wonderful understanding of our ethos and attention to detail, the collaboration was natural. The result, a welcoming and contemporary winery experience with nods to the centuries-old history of the estate. Comfortable seating – because we want you to stay and feel at home. A glass enclosed terrace – so that you can enjoy the view no matter the weather. Modern touches with classic materials – for the marriage of old and new, just like our wines. A minimalist approach to furnishings – which allow the space, views and atmosphere to speak for themselves.

We chatted to Christiaan about the project…

About Christaan Barnard

“I’m an interior designer, listener, interpreter and creator. For me, design is storytelling. I bring the vision of a project to life by creating an evocative story through colours, textures, patterns, and forms that are full of beauty and soul. Intuition and psychology can play a large part in the design process. Finding harmony in many different perspectives and influences is key to a successful project. Clients are my biggest muse, with each project an exploration of curiosity and experimentation”, explains Christaan. 

His Inspiration

Christiaan sees inspiration as the rekindling of our creative spirit and our passionate connection to our work. He also believes it happens serendipitously. “My clients come to me as they know I will bring originality to their project,” continues Christiaan.

Honoured, humbled and privileged to play a role at Haute Cabrière, Christiaan took inspiration from our ethos in creating moments to cherish, brought together by an inspired spirit, family, friends and wine.

About the Design

Christiaan feels that personality comes from drifting away from mainstream, or high trend. “With Haute Cabrière, the creative side of both making the wine and the interior design had to marry in a harmonious way respecting each other in a contemporary understated elegant and stylish way,” continues Christiaan.

Our brief to Christiaan was looking to the future, and this was interpreted by adding colours, textures and patterns in a contemporary way with an understated elegance. His vision of redefining furniture and the spaces with the future wine-lover in mind, with comfort and relaxation is something we smile about each day when we see guests to the winery enjoying their favourite glass of wine or discovering a new one!