Lyndsay Fogarty
Closets and pantries aren’t just for storing clutter any more. These small spaces can be transformed into functional wine cellars where you can beautifully display your wine collection.
The First Step
An elegant cellar inspired by California’s wine country replaces what is usually a pantry or general storage area in this home. Built-in steps give the illusion of stepping down to an underground level, a typical wine cellar characteristic that allows wine to be stored at the proper temperature and humidity but that is nearly impossible to execute in Florida. Travertine tiles made of lightly colored natural stone cover the entire surface area of the space so the room has the cavernous qualities of an authentic wine cellar without going too dark.
Lighten Up
Since the wine cellar was designed underneath the home’s staircase, the ceiling has dramatic angles that lend to dramatic lighting. This chandelier adds a touch of glam while still keeping a fairly understated look with glass baubles to match the glass door at the entrance. These two items work together to bring a glitzy West Coast feel to the space.
Through the Grapevine
Showing off your wine collection is one of the biggest advantages of having a wine cellar in your home – second behind having the right environment to store the wines so that they properly age. Here, the collection is displayed on custom racks that were built into the wall. Organize them by type, varietal or region depending on the size of your collection.
Cool Down Zone
Including a wine cooler in the design allows homeowners to bring the wine down to its proper temperature when they’re ready to drink it without removing it from the wine cellar until it’s time to entertain. Smaller coolers typically work best so as not to overwhelm the space. Set the cooler off with metal or wrought iron gates that match the wine racks used to display the bottles for a well-rounded storage option.
