Halfway between the cities of Napa and Sonoma travelers could once stop to refresh and nourish themselves at the small town of Carneros. Today the luxury Carneros Resort and Spa stands in its place.
SPECTACULAR SETTING
Located in the rolling vineyards of the Carneros wine region, Phase II of the master plan project expanded on simple yet sophisticated agricultural building forms with a “rustic-refined” quality.
Congregate and mingle
Just 15 minutes from busy downtown Napa, the serene quality of the town square is striking and presents an open invitation to relax on the patio, play bocci ball or enjoy fine dining al fresco. The convenience of a charming local Market and Deli leaves little reason for resort guests to leave the grounds. Yet the same retail shop and Post Office draw in local residents who often succumb to the lure of Farm Restaurant.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Though the original town is gone, the resort fulfills seemingly contradictory goals of providing privacy for guests from around the world while offering a public place for locals. An elegant simplicity inside the buildings is enhanced with comfortable furniture and furnishings that reinforce the theme of relaxation in wine country. A second grassy courtyard stretches between the hospitality center wing and a new pool and fitness center, providing a private outdoor zone for weddings, conferences and business retreats.
GARDENS
Twin fountains flank the intersection of public and private zones. From there, a formal processional through the orchard leads up the hill toward the Phase I guest rooms and Hilltop Spa. A farm-like garden setting assures privacy for the Phase II cottages, and quenches a thirst for retreat from today’s urban lifestyle.
BUILDING STATS
Client: Flynn Properties
Size: 48,000
Budget: $40 M
Completion: 2010