Event Centre - Lightfoot & Wolfville vineyards

Situated on the shores of Nova Scotia’s Minas Basin, the Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery is one of several wineries based in the Annapolis Valley, a long valley on the western edge of the province that runs between two parallel mountain ranges. Close proximity to the Bay of Fundy and the world’s highest tides, coastal breezes and excellent temperature moderation help create wines with great distinction, with a focus on terroir-driven, cool-climate wines.

With 40 acres of vines planted on two sites, the Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery is run by the Lightfoots, a family that can trace its presence in this part of Nova Scotia back eight generations. T he connection of people to the land is a key component to wine, so making a strong connection between the building and its place was an overarching philosophy during the design process for the winery’s main building, a stateof-the-art facility that features modern barn architecture and a farm-to-table culinary program, while operating as a bespoke event venue.

Each space in the facility tells a story about the winery, its people and the land that supports them. The retail area subtly supports the feel of the Nova Scotia coastal vernacular while also telling the story of the family’s history of emigrating to Canada before the formation of the country, as well as the patriarch’s life as a barber. The Tidal Room envelops the guests in coastal hospitality and cheerful small village seaside charm. The Biodynamic Room sets a warm atmosphere for learning about the winery’s approaches to terroir, biodynamic viticulture and efforts to preserve the ecology of the area. Finally, the cellar confidently supports the importance and strength of family and friends within a celebratory space that can easily expand or contract to provide great breadth or intimacy.

Wood was the natural material choice for structural systems and finishes to pay homage to the heritage of agricultural buildings of the Annapolis Valley. Wood is featured in every capacity: structure, exterior and interior wall finishes, flooring, ceilings, furniture and even toilet stall partitions. Most of the materials were sourced and fabricated locally, fulfilling one of the key design goals that the building should provide visitors an experience of this place in the world. Many of the spaces in the winery are large to accommodate hundreds of people, but the warmth of the wood finishes makes them comfortable even when only a handful of people are present.

The result is an experience that flows with cohesion from one scene to the next. Through each environment, the audience gains a better understanding of the winery’s approach to hospitality – as well as a greater sense of Nova Scotia’s spirit.