Once upon a time, an idea took root, sprouting into a magnificent tree when nourished by water and earth. Yet, its beauty remained hidden, overshadowed by greed, as water turned red and earth to dust. The transformation left behind a cold, lifeless iron structure, devoid of its former glory. But amidst the desolation, hope stirred once more as Water to Wine emerged—a sanctuary born of resilience and vision. Here, within its white-washed walls, a stark contrast to the bleakness beyond, lies a refuge for the weary soul, a haven where beauty thrives in defiance of adversity.

Step inside, and embark on a sensory journey unlike any other. From the moment your feet touch the gravel path beneath, you are enveloped in the symphony of nature—the earthy aroma of soil mingling with the delicate scent of blossoms, the soft rustle of leaves whispering secrets of the wind. Each step forward is a communion with the land, a celebration of its enduring spirit.

As you walk through the winding path, guided by the gentle curve of the glass roof overhead, your senses are awakened to the splendor that surrounds you. Sunlight filters through the translucent canopy, casting dappled shadows that dance upon the ground, while the melody of birdsong fills the air, a chorus of life amidst the stillness.

Water to Wine is more than just a sanctuary—it is a testament to the transformative power of design, an embodiment of the site's unique qualities and character. With every visit, you are invited to immerse yourself in its beauty, to explore its depths and discover the hidden treasures that lie within. And though the world outside may be fraught with hardship and strife, within these walls, there is solace, there is serenity, there is hope.

2021

The exterior walls of the sanctuary are coated in a pristine white hue, metaphorically embodying purity and the concept of renewal. This deliberate choice serves to starkly contrast the surrounding desolation, acting as a symbolic beacon of hope and resilience amidst the barren landscape.

A gracefully arched structure composed of glass forms the roof of the sanctuary, facilitating the diffusion of natural light into the space below. This design element not only allows sunlight to filter through, casting intricate patterns of dappled shadows upon the ground, but also maintains a seamless connection with the outdoor environment.

Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by a meandering pathway crafted from gravel, which gracefully navigates through the sanctuary's landscape. The tactile sensation of gravel underfoot engages visitors in an immersive experience, grounding them in the present moment as they embark on their sensory journey. Throughout the sanctuary, deliberate consideration has been given to the integration of water features, verdant foliage, and indigenous flora. This strategic amalgamation of man-made structures with the surrounding natural environment fosters a harmonious coexistence, enriching the sensory experience for visitors while simultaneously promoting biodiversity within the sanctuary's ecosystem.

The sanctuary resonates with the melodic symphony of avian chirping, imbuing the atmosphere with a serene tranquility that beckons visitors to pause and listen. This auditory element enhances the immersive experience, forging a profound connection between visitors and the encompassing natural world.

Project team: Arch. Razvan Barsan, arch. Alexandru Duca.

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Alexandru Duca