The Magill Estate is arguably Australia’s most important wine heritage site. Unfortunately, ad hoc development had tarnished the historic site, and so AJ+C set out to restore Magill Estate as a showplace for the Penfolds label.

The masterplan envisaged the design of a new warehouse, restaurant, function centre and office area as part of the site redevelopment. New buildings are confidently modern, but carefully positioned so as not to dominate the historic core. Hence, the new warehouse, although large in area, is carefully positioned behind existing building, and the restaurant appears neutral to the surroundings through the use of glass.

Landscaping of all areas has been based on the fact that this is still a working winery, with spaces uncluttered and functional. From refurbishing existing cellars to create a new office, to conservation work on the original Penfold’s residence, AJ+C responded to minute detail in revitalising an iconic venue for national and international wine industry visitors.